The pandemic has certainly become a paradigm shift in multiple sectors and industries, including the built environment. Therefore, this chapter highlights one of the methods which was adopted during the pandemic in continuing the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) practice without disregarding the site assessment due to the pandemic circumstances. This chapter is to discuss the potential of adopting 3D laser scanning and 3D photogrammetry in the making of a virtual site and building model for various purposes, including building inspections, virtual visits, and defect inspections. The case study of six projects is used to demonstrate the usage of the two methods: 1) 3D laser scanning, and 2) 3D photogrammetry. The results show the potential for the site and building assessment in adopting virtual advanced technologies pertaining to the post pandemic COVID-19 and various future circumstances and challenges in the field of the built environment.
TopIntroduction
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on multiple areas, including architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) (Takewaki, 2020). The restrictions and safety measures imposed to control the spread of COVID-19 have complicated project schedules, access to job sites, and supply chains for materials needed for construction (Yahaya et al., 2022). Additionally, many AEC companies have shifted to remote working arrangements which can possibly hinder communication and collaboration between team members (Truong et al., 2021). Despite these challenges, the pandemic has also brought about opportunities for innovation within the AEC industry such as advances in virtual design and construction technologies to aid remote collaboration and communication among team members (Zhang & Chen, 2019). Furthermore, it has highlighted the importance of adaptable and flexible design to accommodate changing circumstances and unexpected events (Widyarko et al., 2020). Moreover, the pandemic has also increased attention to sustainability and healthy building practices (Sa'ed et al., 2022).
Overall, the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the need for resilience and adaptability in AEC practices, as well as an increased emphasis on innovative technologies and sustainable design principles. The COVID-19 pandemic has proven to have a major impact on various industries including the built environment. Despite the circumstance being observed to cause delayed extension of timeline in the construction of physical development, it has also opened up to various alternatives in the practice. The available advanced technology in mitigating the circumstances during the pandemic including in complimenting the remote working method has been able to take place officially and putting into a possible highlight in its use in order to keep the continuity to the profession. Based on developing data-driven and information-based approaches and digital technologies, the golden era of architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) sectors will certainly continue (Cheshmehzangi, 2021). However, as shown, the present epidemic of the post COVID-19 pandemic has halted development progress and is likely to result in concrete changes to our policies, practices, and viewpoints. It is anticipated that the emphasis on resilience, health, and/or safety will grow. For example, the application of data science is anticipated to influence the development of new methods to information-based modelling, innovative material design, spatial planning, and integrated design solutions. The COVID-19 outbreak indicates the possibility of new paradigm shifts that are likely to alter our growth patterns, notably in the construction and built environment sectors(Cheshmehzangi, 2021). With the rapid advancement of technology, we are likely to adopt new approaches that will improve our resilience and health in cities and communities.