Building renovations in BIM systems

Renovation of buildings is a demanding challenge for computer systems. Nowadays, complex 3D models of historic buildings can be scanned and modelled, including sculptural filigrees and stucco decorations with possibility to generate different projections, cross-sections and elevations according to descriptive geometry rules. However, all of this falls within the field of "3D Modelling". BIM systems work with elements that have to be classified according to their purpose, or according to the way they are realized. The system is then able to sort, filter or group them. Also, it is able to compute their bill of quantity and quality based on their attributes. Last but not least, it has to be able to schematically display civil engineering drawings on the basis of classification of the elements which differ considerably from the display of descriptive geometry. In regular constructions, repeatability and predictability of the links between the elements suit computer systems. Thus, the issue of building renovations in BIM systems is to find a balance between modelling irregular constructions and irregular space arrangements, while maintaining the ability to interact with other BIM elements.