Integration of as-built building information modeling and augmented reality in construction industry : a case study of the (UTM) ECO-HOME

Abstract

Building Information Modeling (BIM) is becoming increasingly popular in architectural documentation processes in which various stakeholders share data through consistent digital models, keeping workflow up to date to maximize reliability and quality throughout the construction cycle. Most of the constructed buildings might not be built as-designed exactly and 2D drawings are not functional to aid facility managers, viral reliance is on the traditional method to develop as-built drawings leads to greater need of developing accurate and functional 3D as-built BIM through smart workflow. 3D laser scanners are rarely used in construction industry and rarely integrated and practiced with BIM. Moreover, due to less efforts exploring the integration of the digital virtual BIM on site activities, it is predicted that Augmented Reality (AR) can fulfill this vision effectively through visualizing BIM right into the reality. However, some research studies developed workflows using 3D laser scanner to come up with 3D model, as well as workflows to adopt the 3D model into AR platforms separately. Therefore, the aim of this research is to integrate “Scan-BIM” workflow with “BIM-AR” workflow developing newly single integrated workflow. This qualitative case study investigates the current practice of as-built data development based on interviews and practice a modem method of 3D as-built BIM development through an experiment. In this study the integration between SCENE, Revit and Unity3D softwares supported with some extension softwares unveiled the possibility of integrating laser scanning, as-built BIM and AR. This research resulted in an efficient solution in developing “Scan-As-Built BIM-AR” integrated workflow that Architecture, Engineering, Construction and Operation (AECO) industries’ practitioners can use to consolidate, optimize and visualize their models in a real-time AR environment.