A parametric-assisted method for 3D generation of as-built BIM models for the built heritage

The paper outlines a parametric-assisted method for the 3D reconstruction and creation of BIM models for the built heritage. The research implements the emerging paradigms of open sourcing, cloud computing and interoperability, employing low-cost technologies (digital photogrammetry) and open source software (Grasshopper for Rhinoceros) which can ease the accessibility to a potential reuse of heritage, typically requiring high specialists and expensive equipment. The research examines the abandoned Albergo Diurno “Venezia” in Milan, heritage with a unique architectural value – a blend of Liberty and Art Deco styles. The process of 3D reconstruction of the ceiling is described. Custom algorithms have been developed to automatically rebuild the complex and irregular geometry from mesh, towards the creation of a NURBS-based 3D model. It is shown how the proposed methodology can streamline the process of data elaboration by reducing arbitrary operations and improve accuracy to preserve geometric irregularities. The associative model allows the automatic improvement in the model definition when more precise input data is feeding the algorithm, offering the opportunity to relate the precision of BIM models in accordance with the needed level of detail (LOD).