eMarketplace

DESCRIPTION:

The BIM procedure for façade panel design in building renovation focuses on streamlining the development of prefabricated timber panels for off-site manufacturing through a fully digitalised, integrated workflow. It involves two key phases: design and production digitalisation. The process begins with fast, cost-effective building surveys using technologies like scanning and photogrammetry to generate 3D point clouds, which are used to accurately model the building’s external geometry in a BIM environment. Retrofitting is then simulated by applying BIM libraries of prefabricated panels directly to the façades, enabling the automated calculation of panel configurations, dimensions, and component quantities. This data-rich model supports precise material estimation and planning, and is seamlessly exported to CAD/CAM systems for manufacturing, ensuring full compatibility with production, quality control, and client order systems—resulting in a fast, accurate, and efficient off-site construction workflow.

BUSINESS ROUTE

Target Users

VALUE

The BIM procedure for façade panel design adds significant value to building renovation by streamlining the entire design-to-production workflow. It enhances automation and accuracy by enabling direct use of digital data to generate CNC cutting paths, eliminating manual data entry and reducing the risk of errors. This seamless integration between the digital model and physical manufacturing ensures higher precision, minimises costly mistakes, and accelerates production readiness. Additionally, it improves collaboration between design and manufacturing teams, resulting in a more efficient, reliable, and scalable process for delivering high-quality prefabricated façade panels in renovation projects.
Demo case in Trento, Italy: the existing building
BIM used for designing the refurbishment intervention in Autodesk Revit (bottom)

APPLICATION

The BIM procedure for façade panel design holds strong potential for broad application and scalability across the renovation and construction sectors. To support this, targeted training programs are proposed to engage diverse professionals—including designers, manufacturers, and installers—fostering collaboration and shared understanding throughout the workflow. Enhanced communication practices will ensure clarity on data needs, deliverables, and formats, promoting smoother integration across project stages. Additionally, by addressing current gaps in BIM standards—such as inconsistent information requests and data exchange protocols—the procedure aims to improve interoperability, making it easier to adopt and replicate across various projects and stakeholders, ultimately supporting large-scale implementation of efficient, digital-driven renovation practices.

POTENTIAL IMPACT

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