The goal of integrating BIM into the comprehensive pipe gallery operation and maintenance platform is to enhance the platform’s ability to support operation and maintenance management. Ultimately, the value of BIM lies in its practical application within specific operation and maintenance tasks. Building on the theoretical foundations and practical background of BIM and comprehensive pipe gallery operation and maintenance management discussed earlier, this section examines how BIM’s four core characteristics can be leveraged for effective operation and maintenance of comprehensive pipe galleries. The details are as follows:
(1) Visualization
BIM’s visualization capability offers an intuitive 3D model interface for comprehensive pipe gallery operation and maintenance. This 3D model enhances value in three main ways:
First, it gives management personnel a thorough understanding of the integrated pipe gallery’s construction. Before routine inspections, inspectors can virtually navigate the model to familiarize themselves with inspection locations and tasks. During maintenance planning, workers can preview the corridor environment via the 3D model, enabling clearer technical briefings, standardizing maintenance procedures, and identifying potential risks.
Second, BIM integrates various monitoring data within the 3D model, vividly displaying operational results for easier interpretation by maintenance managers. For example, environmental monitoring data from the work area can be shown in real-time at corresponding model locations, supporting safety supervision. Video surveillance points are annotated and linked within the model for flexible, comprehensive monitoring. Additionally, the personnel positioning system dynamically displays worker locations inside the gallery, enhancing safety oversight.
Third, the model offers a convenient way to retrieve information. By selecting components in the 3D interface, managers can quickly access relevant data. For spatial management, managers can identify reserved holes to check pipeline occupancy. During inspections, personnel can select equipment directly to review basic component information and historical inspection and maintenance records, facilitating efficient follow-up work.
(2) Integration
BIM provides an effective framework for integrating information related to the operation and maintenance of comprehensive pipe galleries. Beyond inheriting design and construction data, the BIM model supports the consolidation of diverse operation and maintenance information.
For example, inspection results are uploaded to the information platform and linked to the corresponding model components via unique identifiers, enabling centralized access to inspection data. This integration covers a wide range of operational data, including monitoring data from daily checks, process data from operations, spatial management details like corridor pipe information, maintenance records, renovation data, and spare parts inventory and procurement.
(3) Collaboration
BIM’s collaborative nature enables a multi-party, centralized operation and maintenance management platform. This approach consolidates all stakeholders’ work, ensures equal access to information, and improves coordination.
Collaboration occurs on two levels: internally, departments within the operation and maintenance unit coordinate—for example, integrating the warehouse management system so inspection and maintenance staff can check material availability and request supplies, while procurement teams manage timely replenishment. Externally, collaboration extends to partnerships between operation units and specialized pipeline units, facilitating information exchange and coordinated management.
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