Using deep learning for enrichment of heritage BIM: Al Radwan house in historic Jeddah as a case study

Abstract

Building information modeling (BIM) can greatly improve the management and planning of historic building conservation projects. However, implementing BIM in the heritage has many challenges, including issues with modeling irregular features, surveying data occlusions, and a lack of predefined libraries of parametric objects. Indeed, surface features can be manually distinguished and segmented depending on the level of human involvement during data scanning and BIM processing. This requires a significant amount of time and resources, as well as the risk of making too subjective decisions. To address these bottlenecks and improve BIM digitization of building geometry, a novel deep learning based scan-to-HBIM workflow is used during the recording of the historic building in historic Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The proposed workflow enables access to laser scanner and unmanned aerial vehicle imagery data to create a complete integrated survey using high-resolution imagery acquired independently at the best position and time for proper radiometric information to depict the surface features. By employing deep learning with orthophotos, the method significantly improves the interpretation of spatial weathering forms and façade degradation. Additionally, an HBIM library for Saudi Hijazi architectural elements is created, and the vector data derived from deep learning-based segmentation are accurately mapped onto the HBIM geometry with relevant statistical parameters. The findings give stakeholders an effective tool for identifying the types, nature, and spatial extent of façade degradation to investigate and monitor the structure.