Fast Crack Detection Using Convolutional Neural Network

To improve the efficiency and reduce the labour cost of the renovation process, this study presents a lightweight Convolutional Neural Network (CNN)-based architecture to extract crack-like features, such as cracks and joints. Moreover, Transfer Learning (TF) method was used to save training time while offering comparable prediction results. For three different objectives: 1) Detection of the concrete cracks; 2) Detection of natural stone cracks; 3) Differentiation between joints and cracks in natural stone; We built a natural stone dataset with joints and cracks information as complementary for the concrete benchmark dataset. As the results show, our model is demonstrated as an effective tool for industry use

Technical challenges and approaches to transfer building information models to building energy

The complex data exchange between architectural design and building energy simulation constitutes the main challenge in the use of energy performance analyses in the early design stage. The enhancement of BIM model data with additional specific energy-related information and the subsequent mapping to the input of an energy analysis or simulation tool is yet an open issue. This paper examines three approaches for the data transfer from 3D CAD applications to building performance simulations using BIM as central data repository and points out their current and envisaged use in practice. The first approach addresses design scenarios. It focuses on the supporting tools needed to achieve interoperability given a 74 wide-spread commercial BIM model (Autodesk Revit) and a dedicated pre-processing tool (DesignBuilder) for EnergyPlus. The second approach is similar but addresses retrofitting scenarios. In both workflows gbXML is used as the transformation format. In the third approach a standard BIM model, IFC is used as basis for the transfer process for any relevant lifecycle phase

ENVIROMENT MODELLING FOR CONCURRENT ENGINEERING

The research and development in the area of computer integrated construction have looked at various fragments of the domain to be used as a glue for the integration of the profession. Examples of these fragments include products and processes. In this paper, environment modelling is suggested, as an approach that provides a more complete picture of the domain requires the support of information technology. An environment-modelling framework is proposed, which decomposes an abstract concurrent engineering environment into several modelling spaces. For practical reasons, two-dimensional orthogonal framework decomposition is used. Along the first axis, the framework is decomposed according to the modelling aspect (construction, information system, generic), and along the second axis according to the level of detail (neutral, aspect, application). In this paper, we present the decomposition criteria, the resulting framework, and some essential components of the environment. Reported is the work in progress accomplished as a part of the European Union's ESPRIT project ToCEE

Design and usage of a process-centric collaboration methodology for virtual organizations in hybrid environments

This article describes a collaboration methodology for virtual organizations where the processes can be automatically executed using a hybrid web service, grid or cloud resources. Typically, the process of deriving executable workflows from process models is cumbersome and can be automated only in part or specific to a particular distributed system. The approach introduced in this paper, exemplified by the construction industry field, integrates existing technology within a process-centric framework. The solution on the basis of a hybrid system architecture in conjunction with semantic methods for consistency saving and the framework for modeling VO processes and their automated transformation and execution are discussed in detail