Using Scan-to-BIM Techniques to Find Optimal Modeling Effort; A Methodology for Adaptive Reuse Projects

With increased computing power to render 3D models and affordability of as-built data acquisition technologies, new techniques for enhancing the quality of pre-project planning of adaptive reuse projects can be investigated. The main objective of this research is to present a decision making methodology to select the optimum effort using 3D as-built point clouds to develop a BIM of an existing building. Three value proposition and risk reduction areas are investigated: (1) dimensional, (2) material, and (3) disassembly. To measure the cost and value of developing models with corresponding value propositions, a small case study is conducted. Three different Model Detail Levels (MDL) are defined for adaptive reuse projects, and corresponding models are developed for each of them. The value of each model is considered based on its ability to provide information about dimension, materials, and fixtures within an existing building. The cost of the scan-to-BIM process includes costs of purchasing 3D acquisition device, buying BIM modeling software license, scanning and registration, and developing BIM using scan-to-BIM techniques.