Building demolition with robots and BIM: we are already in the future of construction

The demolition of a building is a complex process that requires careful planning and the use of advanced techniques to ensure safety, efficiency, and sustainability. Today, technologies such as robotics and Building Information Modeling (BIM) introduce innovative methods that reduce environmental impact and optimize material recovery.

In this article, we will explore how the combined use of robots and BIM software can transform a very traditional activity like building demolition, leading us into a new future of construction.

The phases of building demolition

Before analyzing the use of robots and BIM, it is important to understand the main phases of a traditional building demolition:

• preliminary analysis: assessment of structural conditions and identification of the load-bearing parts of the building;
• planning: creation of a detailed schedule that establishes the sequence of operations;
• execution: the actual demolition, following the established order to minimize the risks of unexpected collapses;
• waste material management: separation, recycling, and safe disposal of recovered materials​.

However, these processes are rapidly evolving thanks to the adoption of advanced technologies such as robotics and BIM. Let’s delve into these aspects in the following paragraphs.

How robots are changing building demolition

Robotics is having a significant impact on the demolition of a building, thanks to the ability of robots to perform dangerous and repetitive tasks with high precision. Demolition robots are equipped with advanced sensors, cameras, and artificial intelligence (AI) systems that allow them to navigate complex spaces and identify the materials present.

Some of the advantages of using robots include:

• increased safety: robots can operate in hazardous environments without the need for human presence, reducing the risk of accidents and injuries​;
• operational efficiency: thanks to their automation, robots accelerate the demolition process and reduce downtime;
• material recovery: robots can identify and separate recyclable materials such as metals, glass, and plastic, contributing to more sustainable waste management​.

Robots are successfully used in complex projects that require precision and control. For example, in the controlled demolition of historic buildings or in the decommissioning of nuclear plants, robots have been employed to dismantle specific sections without damaging surrounding structures. This approach reduces risks and allows for the preservation of valuable architectural elements​.

The role of BIM in building demolitions

Building Information Modeling (BIM) is a digital methodology that allows for the creation of an accurate 3D model of a building, containing all structural and material information. This tool has proven essential not only during the construction phase but also in the demolition of buildings.

BIM can optimize building demolition through:

• creation of digital twins: thanks to BIM, it is possible to create a digital model of the building that accurately represents the existing structure (digital twin). This allows designers to visualize the building and plan the demolition sequence precisely, minimizing errors​;
• material analysis: BIM facilitates the identification and analysis of materials, helping to decide which elements can be recovered or recycled. This supports circular economy practices and reduces the amount of waste sent to landfills;
• integrated planning: the combination of BIM with the use of robots allows for integrated demolition planning, where the digital model is updated in real-time with data collected by robots on-site​.

The integration of robots and BIM: an innovative synergy

The real revolution in building demolition comes from the integration of robots and BIM. This synergy allows for the optimization of operations, reducing time and costs, and improving material management.

Among the most relevant advantages of the integration between robots and BIM are:

• increased accuracy: robots can collect data through sensors and update the BIM model in real-time, providing an accurate representation of the building’s conditions. This reduces the margin of error and facilitates decision-making;
• sustainability: the integration of robots and BIM enables effective management of recoverable materials, helping to reduce the environmental impact of demolition. The ability to recycle materials such as concrete, metals, and glass represents an important step towards a more sustainable construction industry​;
• real-time updates: data collected by robots are integrated into the BIM, allowing project teams to quickly adapt demolition operations in case of changes or unforeseen events on-site.

Case study: sustainable demolition with Van Wijnen and the European InCUBE project

In the video accompanying the article, the experience of the Dutch company Van Wijnen, a leader in the construction and renovation sector, is showcased within the framework of the European InCUBE project. This EU research and innovation initiative aims to promote advanced solutions for the renovation of the building heritage in Europe, testing new approaches in three demonstration projects: Trento (Italy), Zaragoza (Spain), and the Van Heemskerck complex in Groningen, the Netherlands.

In the case of Groningen, Van Wijnen successfully implemented robotization and digitalization technologies, utilizing the usBIM.editor software accessible from iPad for the operators of demolition robots. This solution allowed for real-time updates of the IFC openBIM models, ensuring a detailed and accurate view of the building’s conditions during demolition.

Visualization through BIM model of elements to be demolished and preserved

In the video, one of the workers describes how the use of the robot has facilitated operations even in tight spaces, thanks to its compact size that allows it to fit through any opening. The interviewee also emphasizes that, despite the initial difficulties due to the poor accessibility of the site, the robot was able to carry out the building demolition precisely and efficiently. The brick walls came off easily, often without even the need for additional tools.

The operator also shares his experience with BIM, praising the software for its ability to provide a detailed overview of the operations, highlighting what needs to be demolished and what should be preserved.

Detailed planning of the sequence of building demolition operations using BIM software support

In addition, it suggests an improvement, namely to increase the amount of data integrated into the BIM, such as the location of pipes and cables, to avoid unintentional damage and make project management even more effective​​.

This experience demonstrates how the approach of Van Wijnen, supported by the InCUBE project, is transforming renovation practices through the use of robotics and digitalization, aiming to improve the efficiency and sustainability of building demolition​​.

The adoption of advanced technologies such as robotics and BIM software is bringing building demolition into the future. This approach not only enhances safety and efficiency but also supports more sustainable and environmentally friendly practices. The combination of robots and BIM represents a new frontier for the construction industry, paving the way for innovative and responsible demolition methods.

The synergy between these technologies is not just an option for the future, but is already a reality that is transforming the way we approach building demolition. With the continuous development of AI and sensor technologies, we can expect even greater advancements in the coming years, solidifying this evolution as the new industry standard.