In recent years, applied research and building information modelling (BIM) have been directed to the scan-to-BIM process by implementing increasingly high-performance methods capable of managing a large amount of data such as laser scans and high-resolution orthophotos and textured mesh models from digital photogrammetry (terrestrial and aerial). On the other hand, the digitisation process of built heritage and the paradigms of the “reliability” and “transparency” of HBIM models have not yet been wholly considered by the main international BIM standards. For that reason, this study proposes a method and the development of HBIM parameters capable of communicating heterogeneous val-ues to support the life cycle of the building, from the survey campaign to the restoration and mainte-nance of the asset. In this context, 3D modelling, HBIM, building archaeology, visual programming lan-guage (VPL) and extended reality (XR) have been directed to a scan-to-HBIM-to-XR method able to improve the information sharing of earthquake-damaged buildings such as the San Francesco church in Arquata del Tronto, moving from for different types of users, digital devices and virtual experiences.
Extended Reality (XR) and Cloud–Based BIM Platform Development
Extended reality (XR), Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Building Information Modeling (BIM) for the digitization of cultural heritage are proving remarkably successful in different fields of application. The convergence of innovative methods, latest–generation technologies, and software applications for the representation, storage, transmission of tangible and intangible values of architecture, turn out to be increasingly decisive both in supporting the project’s needs of the professionals involved in the valorisation and management of the built cultural heritage and in enhancing the transmission of computer–generated perceptual information for all types of users (expert and non–expert). For those reasons, this article presents research focused on the development of an open–source cloud–based BIM platform and XR projects capable of sharing a knowledge process based on new levels of interactivity and digital creativity.