Chinese researchers are digitally archiving some of the world’s oldest wooden buildings, structure by structure. Led by Lianxin Chen, researchers from the Guilin University of Technology and Nanning College of Technology are using 3D laser scanning and finite element simulation to build heritage building information models (HBIM) that will help preserve timber buildings for centuries to come.
“The ultimate goal of digital preservation is not merely to create an accurate digital model, but to utilise the digital model for effective conservation, restoration, research, and education,” according to Chen, who published new research modelling the 400-year Zhenwu Pavilion. “For example, the structural safety of timber-framed ancient buildings, as a key focus of ancient building conservation, should ideally be addressed by HBIM models for safety assessment and structural health monitoring tasks.”
“Given the complex shape and structural construction of traditional Chinese wooden architecture, the method is carried out in three stages,” Chen said. “First, data collection of various types of ancient buildings (including plan dimensions, floor heights, cross-sectional dimensions of components, and spatial relationships) is conducted using 3D laser scanning and UAV surveying. On this basis, historical archives, on-site investigation data, and survey data are integrated. Subsequently, based on the data, an HBIM family library is established using Autodesk Revit, and the overall HBIM model is completed through assembly. Finally, a structural analysis of the wooden ancient building is carried out based on the HBIM model. This includes qualitative structural analysis using HBIM’s virtual construction and finite element simulation analysis, which involves importing the HBIM model into SAP2000 software to determine relevant conservation measures and complete the construction of the HBIM environment.”
According to the research, Chinese wooden architecture is characterised by component-based assembly, modular dimensions, and feature-based combinations. In essence, it is a process of “parametric” design and construction based on specific dimensions. Therefore, the parametric modelling concept of HBIM is highly compatible with the construction philosophy of traditional Chinese wooden architecture: “This study proposes an HBIM method that integrates multiple digital technologies and extends the application of the HBIM model, aiming to ensure adequate documentation and precise conservation of wooden ancient buildings,” Chen said. “The workflow generates a comprehensive and accurate digital model, which can provide more scientific and efficient technical support for the conservation and restoration of wooden ancient buildings.”
Large-scale fire spread is a significant risk for China’s ancient buildings.
Last year, Wood Central reported that UNESCO is looking to preserve Chinese traditional architecture (and thousands of timber-framed structures), “wooden components, such as columns, beams, purlins, lintel and bracket sets are connected by tendon joints.” According to Jun Ma and Chunbei Xiao, both from the Beijing-based Capital University of Economics and Business, report that “frequent fires in traditional Chinese wooden buildings have caused significant economic losses, casualties and the subsequent loss of traditional buildings. “
That’s because timber-based traditional Chinese buildings have a low fire resistance rating and a fast burning speed: “So by the time people react to the fire, it has already spread rapidly to other buildings.”
Find out more: Chen, L., Dai, C., Zhou, M. et al. Development and application of an HBIM method for timber structures integrated with digital technologies. npj Herit. Sci. 13, 381 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1038/s40494-025-01925-2.
