Automatic building construction, inspection and payment method

Abstract

Automatic building inspection and payment method comprising: providing a smart contract (SM) over blockchain basing on contract terms and agreements; providing a building software model (BIM) related to desired technical construction information (TI); providing building elements (BE;BU) corresponding to the building software model (BIM); inspecting (104) the building (BU; BE) and defining resulting construction information (RCI); creating (105) a digital twin (DTW) representing a virtual replica of said building and / or building elements (BE); comparing (106) the digital twin (DTW) with building software model (BIM) to define discrepancies (DS); triggering (108) a payment procedure according to a decision (DC) on said discrepancies.

Description

[0001] P7995PC00

[0002] "Automatic building construction, inspection and payment method"

[0003] BACKGROUND

[0004] Technical field

[0005] The present invention relates to an automatic building construction, inspection and payment method .

[0006] Description of the Related Art

[0007] The construction industry plays a critical role in the global economy and is expected to contribute to a predicted increase of the global GDP by 2030 . However, the industry has been critici zed for its low productivity, lack of innovation and outdated contractual practices .

[0008] While advancements in information and communication technology ( ICT ) have fueled progress in other sectors , the architecture , engineering, and construction (AEC ) sector is playing catch-up . The industry generates a vast amount of data, including proj ect information, contracts , quality inspections , and construction site monitoring .

[0009] To address the sector ' s productivity issues and overcome traditional contractual barriers , industry leaders are looking to digital technology as a viable solution .

[0010] One maj or challenge faced by the construction industry P7995PC00 is the high risk of delays, cost overruns, and disputes which can lead to legal battles and damaged relationships between project stakeholders. This is partly due to the complex nature of construction projects, and the involvement of multiple parties, each with its own objectives and interest.

[0011] Summary of the invention

[0012] The Applicant notes that there is a need for effective project management tools and techniques to minimize the above-mentioned risks and ensure project success.

[0013] The present invention relates to an automatic building construction and payment method ad defined by claim 1. Particular embodiments of the methods are described by the dependent claims 2-11.

[0014] Particularly, the automatic building construction, inspection, and payment method entails the integration of Autopayments, smart contracts, and robotic inspection (legged robot) or construction (e.g. 3-D printer or Assembly arm) in the construction industry using Building Information Modeling (BIM) .

[0015] This integration aims to automate payment procedures, enhance collaboration, and ensure quality assurance by leveraging blockchain, robotics, artificial intelligence, and BIM. P7995PC00

[0016] Brief Description of the Drawings

[0017] Further characteristics and advantages will be more apparent from the following description of a preferred embodiment and of its alternatives given as an example with reference to the enclosed drawings in which :

[0018] Figure 1 shows a flowchart representing a first example of an automatic building construction, inspection and payment method;

[0019] Figure 2 is a flowchart representing an example of method for creating a building software model employable by said method;

[0020] Figure 3 is a flow chart schematically shows a flowchart of a building and / or building element construction employable by said method .

[0021] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0022] First example

[0023] Figure 1 shows a flowchart of a first example of an automatic inspection and payment method 100 , that also includes an automatic building construction .

[0024] The method 100 can be implemented partially by software running on computers ( e . g . , computers connected in a network) and by construction apparatuses ( i . e . robots ) and inspection devices , as it will be further clari fied .

[0025] The method 100 comprises a first step 101 in which one or P7995PC00 more smart contracts SM over a blockchain are generated. The smart contract SM is based on contract terms and agreements between involved parties and also contains desired technical construction information TI and payment information PI. As an example, the smart contracts SM are developed and implemented using platforms like Ethereum, allowing for the automation and execution of predefined agreements and conditions.

[0026] In greater details, after agreeing on terms, the deployment of smart contracts begins. Funds, based on agreements, are reserved. Smart contracts with encoded contract rules are developed in Solidity for platforms like Ethereum. This code, once translated, is compiled into bytecode and uploaded to the blockchain with a unique address. These contracts, once operational, can be interacted with via private (using POA on Quorum blockchain) or public methods (using PBFT consensus) .)

[0027] The involved parties can be, as an example, one or more builders but mostly between contractor and employee. Technical construction information required in smart contracts may include architectural designs, structural details, material specifications, project timelines, compliance requirements, cost estimates, and quality standards . P7995PC00

[0028] In addition, it should encompass financial agreements and compensation, such as penalties for delays , payment schedules , and milestone payments . The risk of dispute is mitigated by the exhaustive information that guarantees clarity on proj ect scope , requirements , expectations , and financial commitments .

[0029] After agreements are finali zed, in a second step 102 technical construction information TI are used to create a building software model BIM .

[0030] The building software model BIM provides a representation of a design of a building and construction data CD . The building software model BIM is a digital model of the building that can be created using a known software such as Revit .

[0031] It is noticed that the Work Breakdown Structure (WBS ) algorithm provides speci fics such as the first floor ' s windows and slabs , enabling a real-time link between the digital model and on-ground construction .

[0032] Navisworks is utili zed for better inspection of the designed model in Revit , facilitating quantity estimation, detecting clashes , and veri fying assembly .

[0033] In a third step 103 one or more buildings and / or building elements BE / BU are constructed using construction apparatuses CA) based on the building information modeling P7995PC00 software modelBIM .

[0034] In other words , the physical construction is executed according to the representations in the BIM model , guided by the desired technical construction information TI . Building elements BE can be produced automatically by 3D printers or prefabricated as components .

[0035] Dynamo in Revit coordinates the prefabricated components , while the Robot Operating System (ROS ) guides robot functionalities . The assembly of building elements BE is carried out by assembly robots .

[0036] The method 100 further includes a fourth step 104 , in which an inspection of the building BU and / or building elements BE is performed .

[0037] This inspection can be carried out by supervisor devices SD . The fourth step 104 is a quality checks postproduction in which the elements of the building that are built in the construction phase or other buildings are inspected . This inspection can be in part carried out by human workforces .

[0038] The supervisor devices SD leverage advanced technologies to ensure that the built elements BE meet the required standards and speci fications . These devices SD may include autonomous mobile inspection robots equipped with suitable sensors . P7995PC00

[0039] Particularly, the BIM model's data are extracted in IFC format to the Robot Operating System (ROS) , which guides robots within the construction site. After calibration, robots use (simultaneous localization and mapping) SLAM for mapping and navigation. Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) , equipped with Lidar and capturing tools, scrutinize the sites.

[0040] Autonomous mobile inspection robots provide a scalable and effective means for continually gathering and evaluating digital operational data, going beyond the basic coverage offered by fixed sensors.

[0041] The Applicant observes that automation is the most cost-effective and efficient method for monitoring the progress of building projects and measuring their effectiveness. Several cutting-edge technologies, including Al, Augmented Reality (AR) , Virtual Reality (VR) , and Extended Reality (XR) , can be employed for modeling and monitoring actual dynamic activity in real time. LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) can be employed, although still in its early stages, can also be utilized, along with other smart sensors.

[0042] The inspection in the fourth step 104 allows for defining resulting construction information RCI corresponding to technical information describing the P7995PC00 building BU and / or building elements BE as constructed .

[0043] Moreover, in a fi fth step 105 , the software creates a digital twin DTW using the resulting construction information RCI . Particularly, the digital twin DTW is obtained the point clouds gathered by Lidar and real-time as-built data from cameras . The digital twin DTW represents a precise virtual replica of the building and / or building elements BE / BU as constructed and incorporates resulting construction information RCI .

[0044] Additionally, the digital twin DTW can be utili zed to generate virtual reality (VR) or augmented reality (AR) visuali zations of the building, enhancing the accuracy and utility of the model .

[0045] In a sixth step 106 , the as-built Digital Twin DTW is compared with the designed building software model BIM obtained in the second step 102 , using Al or digital software . This comparison allows defining discrepancies DS between the compared elements . After a comprehensive analysis and comparison of the as-built data with the as- model data, the resulting discrepancies DS are securely integrated into the blockchain system through a trusted intermediary .

[0046] In a seventh step 107 the resulting discrepancies DS

[0047] (which include performance metrics and operational P7995PC00 parameters ) are sent to ( i . e . are integrated to ) the smart contract SM . The seventh step 107 can be performed using software or trusted third party, as an example , an oracle . The oracle acts as a bridge between the comparison data ( data base ) and the smart contracts SM, facilitating the trans fer of relevant data .

[0048] Moreover, said smart contract SM and the resulting discrepancies DS are processed to evaluate i f the terms of the contracts have been satis fied or not and produce a corresponding decision DEC . Particularly, the processing of the smart contract SM and the resulting discrepancies DS can be performed using Ethereum virtual machine .

[0049] In an eight step 108 , a payment procedure is triggered according to said decision DC . I f the terms of the contracts have been satis fied, the construction companies payment will automatically enabled (ninth step 109 ) . On the contrary, when the terms of the contracts have not been satis fied, the payment of the construction company is prevented ( tenth step 110 ) .

[0050] Second example

[0051] It is observed that according to a second example , the automatic inspection and payment method 100 does not include the third step 103 where the one or more buildings and / or building elements BE / BU are constructed using P7995PC00 construction apparatuses CA. According to the second example, the buildings and / or building elements BE / BU are already available. Moreover, in accordance with this second example a smart contract SM is already available as well as the BIM model. Unless the above indicated differences, this second example comprises the same steps 105-110 described above with reference to figure 1.

[0052] Advantages

[0053] It is noticed that by combining smart contracts, digital models, robotic devices, and digital twins, the integrated method 100 (according to the first or the second example) enables a seamless and automated process from design to construction (if performed) , inspection, and performance evaluation. It promotes transparency, efficiency, and accountability while facilitating effective communication and coordination among all stakeholders involved in the building lifecycle.

[0054] It is further noticed that autopayments, smart contracts, and robotic inspection are revolutionizing the AEG industry by providing increased transparency and improved governance models.

[0055] Through blockchain's traceability feature, stakeholders can collaborate more effectively and trust in the data used for construction management applications. The P7995PC00 sel f-executability of smart contracts enables automation and ef ficiency, paving the way for streamlined processes and enhanced proj ect outcomes .

[0056] The concept of integrating these technologies to achieve increased transparency and improved governance models has not been previously suggested in the literature . This innovative method of fers promising potential for enhancing collaboration, trust , and automation in construction processes , making it a valuable contribution to the field .

[0057] SPECIFIC EXAMPLE

[0058] A speci fic example of the method 100 is described below . This example refers to the construction and inspection of building elements located on a first floor of a building BU, namely the slab concrete and the assembly of external windows .

[0059] 1 . EXAMPLE OF THE FIRST STEP 101

[0060] 1 . 1 . Agreements

[0061] Once the agreement terms for the smart contracts SM have been finali zed, a deployment phase is performed .

[0062] In the described example , the agreement encompasses two speci fic aspects : the casting of concrete for the slab and the installation of external windows and window doors .

[0063] For the slab, the agreement stipulates the casting of P7995PC00 concrete of first floor with a volume of 96.5 m3, to be completed by a specific first date (e.g. 26 / 01 / 2026) . The total cost for this task is set at € 6,410.40.

[0064] Regarding the external windows and window doors, the agreement specifies the installation of various sizes. This includes 7 pieces of size 240 cm x 150 cm, 2 pieces of size 140 cm x 140 cm, and 1 piece of size 275 cm x 240 cm. The installation is expected to be finished by a second date (e.g. 22 / 04 / 2025) , and the total cost for this task is set at € 7,489.31.

[0065] In case of contract cancellation before a fixed date, the contractor is entitled to receive a recompense amounting to 10% of the total cost for each task. The recompense for the slab casting task is € 641.04, and the recompense for the external windows / doors installation task can be added to the table as per the agreed terms.

[0066] The above indicated data are also shown in the Table 1 below . P7995PC00

[0067] The indicated tasks (i.e., architectural elements) , their descriptions (including sizes and materials) and the quantities are examples of technical instruction information TI. The indicated costs, the finish times and the recompense can be considered as part of the payment information PI .

[0068] 1.2 Smart Contracts Deployment

[0069] Deployment of smart contract SM occurs when all agreement terms and financial details have been ironed out. By encoding the rules and conditions of a contract in the blockchain, "smart contracts" automatically carry out their terms. These contracts streamline the contractual process by automating the execution, enforcement, and administration of the agreed-upon terms. In accordance with an example, during the deployment P7995PC00 and coding phase of smart contracts using (preferably)

[0070] Solidity, the agreement terms ( including technical construction information TI and payment information PI ) are translated into code that will govern the execution of the contract on the blockchain . Solidity is a programming language speci fically designed for writing smart contracts on platforms like Ethereum .

[0071] The agreement terms including technical construction information TI and payment information PI are encoded into the smart contract code using Solidity syntax and structure . This code defines the logic and rules that will be enforced by the smart contract .

[0072] Particularly, the written code is compiled to bytecode , which is the machine-readable vers ion of the contract . This bytecode is then deployed onto the blockchain, creating a smart contract instance that can be interacted with by the parties involved . The deployment process involves sending the compiled bytecode and any required parameters to a blockchain network . The contract is then assigned a unique address on the blockchain, which serves as its identi fier .

[0073] Once the smart contract SM is deployed, it can be accessed and executed by the involved parties . The contract code defines various functions that can be called to perform actions such as initiating payments , checking P7995PC00 contract status, or enforcing specific conditions.

[0074] The access and execution mechanism for the smart contract can be a private mechanism, Proof of Authority (POA) (as described in "Supreet, Y., et al. Performance Evaluation of Consensus Algorithms in Private Blockchain Networks; in 2020 International Conference on Advances in Computing, Communication & Materials (ICACCM) . 2020" based on the Quorum. Alternatively, the access and execution mechanism can be a public mechanism based on the Practical Byzantine Fault Tolerance (PBFT) consensus algorithm (as an example, described in "Jahankhani, H., D.V. Kilpin, and S. Kendzierskyj , Blockchain and Other Emerging Technologies for Digital Business Strategies. 2022: Springer".

[0075] According to an embodiment tested by the Applicant, the Remix IDE for smart contract development and testing has been employed. After the code has been written, the testing and debugging tools in the Remix IDE has been employed to make sure the contract worked as intended. First, the proper environment in Remix IDE for the contract has been selected, such as JavaScript VM or Injected Web3. After configuring the surrounding conditions, the smart contract code has been copied and pasted into the IDE.

[0076] According to an embodiment, the next step was to put the smart contract SM to the test. A number of test P7995PC00 functions under the "Solidity Compiler" heading, in the

[0077] "Test" section, to ensure we were ready for any eventuality has been written. We were able to ensure the contract's logic and operations were functioning properly by using these test functions.

[0078] 2. SPECIFIC EXAMPLE OF THE SECOND STEP 102

[0079] 2.2 Building Information Modelling

[0080] Typically, the building software model BIM is built and incorporated into the project process simultaneously. Particularly, the building software model is a Building Information Modelling (BIM) .

[0081] The BIM model is created, as an example, utilizing Revit software. This BIM creation includes analyzing the project requirements, architectural drawings, and any relevant documentation. Using this information, a comprehensive BIM model is deployed in Revit, which will serve as a digital representation of the building or structure BU.

[0082] Structures (like walls, floors, and roofs, as well as fixtures like doors and windows) are all represented in the BIM model. Preferably, the BIM model is created thoroughly checking every step to guarantee correctness and conformity with all requirements. The Revit program has the appropriate dimensions, material qualities, and other P7995PC00 settings specified.

[0083] Further, in the obtained BIM model a Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) algorithm is employed to locate and detail the first floor's slab and windows in the project's scenario. The Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) is a hierarchical method for organizing and classifying project aspects; it provides a framework for managing and monitoring building projects.

[0084] All of the slab and window components in Revit are labelled with the same WBS codes as were used in the project documentation. Because of this, the Revit model, the project management software, and the actual building process can all communicate with one another in real time. Using the same WBS codes in the Revit files helps to clearly connect the digital model to the physical building components and also maintain the which elements should be inspected digitally. The slab and window components may be accurately tracked, monitored, and coordinated during the whole building process thanks to this connection.

[0085] During BIM construction, Navisworks (or another 3D design review package) can be employed to improve the inspection and preparatory processes. It is observed that Navisworks facilitates quantity take off, clash detection, and assembly verification for an efficient construction P7995PC00 process .

[0086] Navisworks allows determining how much of each material will be needed to build elements (e.g. slabs) getting quantity take-off data from the BIM model. Estimating costs, planning resources, and making purchases are all aided by these numbers.

[0087] The BIM process includes, preferably, clash detection. Navisworks finds potential conflicts by combining together 3D models of various architectural elements like slabs and pillars. To account for even the smallest of deviations or probable collisions between these components, a tolerance of 2 cm (0.02m) is considered.

[0088] It is observed that preventing expensive and timeconsuming rework during construction by finding potential incompatibilities ahead of time is very useful. Avoiding delays, disagreements, and possible safety issues may be greatly aided by resolving them before to the start of construction .

[0089] Navisworks also helps with assembly verification. The BIM model may be used to mimic the construction of a wide range of architectural components, including prefabricated elements and 3D printed components.

[0090] Thanks to Navisworks projects may be planned more effectively, construction quality can be raised, and risks P7995PC00 can be mitigated throughout the building and inspection processes .

[0091] It is noticed that Navisworks is an example of employable 3D design review package .

[0092] It is observed that the second step 102 (wherein the building software model BIM is created) includes the following further steps : generation of a robot assembly software RAS ( eleventh step 111 ) , generation of a control code CCP ( twelve step 112 ) , generation of an inspection robot control software IRCS ( thirteenth step 113 ) , as schematically shown in figure 2 .

[0093] The robot assembly software RAS is generated from the building software model BIM . The robot assembly software RAS comprises instructions for correctly aligning, placing and assembling building elements BE ( such as , prefabricated elements ) using robots , as apparatuses CA. More particularly, the robot assembly software RAS is compliant with a Robot Operating System, ROS . The robot assembly software RAS is obtained, as an example , by collecting information from the building software model BIM and export such information as IFC ( Industry Foundation Classes ) file .

[0094] According to an embodiment , a control code CCP for 3D printers is obtained from the building software model BIM . More particularly, building software model BIM are sent to P7995PC00 the software Dynamo (a visual programming tool) , where the printing process's control code is developed. Code generation entails making a print route that prints correctly and making a point cloud that describes the framework. The 3D printers can be employed to print some of the building elements BE.

[0095] Furthermore, an inspection robot control software IRCS is generated from the building software model BIM. The inspection robot control software IRCS is compliant with the Robot Operating System, ROS. More particularly, inspection robot control software IRC includes inf ormation / data allowing specific robots to carry out localization, navigation, and motion planning. As an example, said inf ormation / data are be retrieved as from industry foundation classes (IFC) files once the building software model BIM has been created and sent to the Robot Operating System (ROS) , which guides robots within the construction site. After calibration, robots use (simultaneous localization and mapping) SLAM for mapping and navigation. Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) , equipped with Lidar and capturing tools, scrutinize the sites to the Robot Operating System (ROS) , which guides robots within the construction site. After calibration, robots use SLAM for mapping and navigation. So, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles P7995PC00

[0096] (UAVs ) , equipped with Lidar and capturing tools , will start the inspect the site for elements .

[0097] 3. SPECIFIC EXAMPLE OF THE THIRD STEP 103

[0098] 3. 1 Building elements and / or Building Construction

[0099] The building elements BE and / or building BU construction ( third step 103 , figure 3 ) comprises the following steps : robotic assembling step 114 , 3D printing step 115 and construction step 116 .

[0100] In the robotic assembling step 114 the construction apparatuses CA ( i . e . robots ) assemble prefabricated elements BE according to the robot assembly software RAS generated in the eleventh step 111 .

[0101] In the 3D printing step 115 , the provided 3D printers produce printed elements BE , according to the control code CCP generated in the twelve step 112 . Particularly, the printing step 115 begins after the control code CCP has been developed and sent to the 3D printer . It is noticed that when building information modeling (BIM) and additive manufacturing ( 3D printing) are combined, complex building components may be accurately and easily customi zed throughout the production process .

[0102] In the construction step 116 , a building BU is constructed using the printed elements and the assembled elements BE . The construction can be made by human beings P7995PC00 with suitable tools and / or by robots, in accordance with the content of the BIM model.

[0103] Particularly, the Robot Operating System (ROS) receives the BIM model data in the form of an IFC (Industry Foundation Classes) file for processing.

[0104] The Robot Operating System (ROS) is a platform for controlling and automating robots, including features like route planning and Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM) .

[0105] 4. SPECIFIC EXAMPLE OF THE FOURTH STEP 104

[0106] 4.1 Inspection of the building elements BE and / or building BU

[0107] As already described the inspection of the fourth step 104 can be carried out by supervisor devices SD including robots provided with sensors SNS .

[0108] According to an example, the robot SD uses the IFC file to locate itself in the building BU and recognize possible obstructions, as well as the URDF (Unified Robot Description Format) file that details the features of the windows .

[0109] Through this process of calibration, the robot SD is able to learn the structure's and environment's layout. Once the robot SD has been calibrated, it may use simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM) techniques to P7995PC00 construct a map of the building using data from both the robot ' s sensors SNS and the building software model BIM .

[0110] This mapping technique aids the robot SD in ef ficiently traversing and inspecting the predetermined locations . Automating and streamlining the robotic inspection process is made possible by the combination of BIM model data with ROS and the use of software SLAM ( Simultaneous Locali zation and Mapping) and route planning . The inspection process is facilitated by the robot ' s ability to success fully explore the building BU, identi fy obstructions , and proceed along a predetermined inspection route .

[0111] According to an example the supervisor device SD can be an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) to assist with the examination of the concrete slab or other building elements . The UAV is sent out on the designated inspection date to quickly and accurately identi fy and evaluate the construction site .

[0112] The UAV ' s cutting-edge Lidar ( Light Detection and Ranging) technology allows it to take detailed measurements of the concrete floor . Laser light detection and ranging ( Lidar ) systems function by sending out laser pulses and then monitoring how long it takes for those pulses to reflect of f of an obj ect . With thi s information, a precise

[0113] 3D point cloud model of the concrete slab can be P7995PC00 constructed, which will provide precise details about the slab ' s shape , surface conditions , and any faults ( that are example of resulting construction information RCI ) .

[0114] The UAV not only takes pictures but also can use a hammer sonic test ( to determine the state of the concrete underneath) . The surface of the concrete is tapped with a speci fic hammer, and the sound waves that are produced are analyzed in order to conduct this non-destructive test . The UAV can inspect the concrete for problems including delamination, cavities , and fractures by listening to its acoustic response . Data from the UAV, such as Lidar scans and hammer sonic test results , are processed and evaluated .

[0115] The data is then cross-referenced with industry norms and requirements to identi fy outliers , which are an example of resulting construction information RCI . Insights gained from this investigation of the concrete slab ' s condition and strength are invaluable .

[0116] UAVs equipped with Lidar technology and the hammer sonic test allow us to evaluate concrete slabs more quickly and precisely . Concrete health evaluations and visual data work together to of fer a thorough assessment of the slab ' s condition that may inform timely maintenance or repair .

[0117] 5 . SPECIFIC EXAMPLE OF THE FIFTH STEP 105

[0118] 5 . 1 Detection of the resulting construction information P7995PC00

[0119] RCI and creation of digital twin (DTW)

[0120] After collecting data via LiDAR and real-time capture , it is sent for further analysis . Images and LiDAR scans are examples of the types of data gathered . This data is used to produce a Digital Twin ( DTW) by creating a point cloud, which is then analyzed with advanced algorithms to identi fy discrepancies ( DS ) compared to a standard model . Digital twins can also be utili zed in Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) systems to enhance building management through digitali zation, of fering immersive visuali zation and interactive experiences .

[0121] 6. SPECIFIC EXAMPLE OF THE SIXTH STEP 106 : comparison of the as-built Digital Twin DTW with the designed building software model BIM

[0122] Analysis of collected pictures is performed by Al programs by comparing them to either reference images or historical inspection data .

[0123] The analyzing system is able to detect any visual di f ferences , such as cracks , surface flaws , or changes in the quality of the concrete slab, by using methods including image di f ferencing, pattern recognition, and machine learning . The relevance and possible ef fect of these variations on the structural integrity are underlined and discussed . P7995PC00

[0124] The data from the Lidar and laser scanners are similarly processed to provide a point cloud model of the examined region. Artificial intelligence algorithms are used to examine the digital twin data for anomalies, such as unexpected changes in surface elevation or structural abnormalities and compare it with BIM Model. The Al system is able to quickly and accurately recognize and categorize various objects and components inside the digital twin, allowing for the discovery of possible difficulties or incompatibilities, by employing machine learning and data processing methods.

[0125] As an example, to calculate the maximum allowable clashes for a slab quantity of 96.5 m3with a clash detection frequency of 2 cm, we need to convert the volume to square meters. Assuming a uniform thickness for the slab, we can divide the volume by the slab thickness to obtain the area in square meters.

[0126] - Slab thickness of 40 cm (0.4 meters) .

[0127] - Slab Area = Slab Volume / Slab Thickness,

[0128] Slab Area = 96.5 m3 / 0.4 m,

[0129] Slab Area = 241.25 m2(rounded to two decimal places ) .

[0130] - Maximum Allowable Clashes = Slab Area * Clash

[0131] Detection Frequency, P7995PC00

[0132] Maximum Allowable Clashes 241.25 m2* 0.02

[0133] Maximum Allowable Clashes = 4.825 m2clashes.

[0134] 7. SPECIFIC EXAMPLE OF THE SEVENTH STEP 107

[0135] 7.1 Comparison of the smart contract SM and the discrepancies DS and / or the digital twin DTW

[0136] In accordance with the described example, a table (Table 2) for comparing the contracted payment figures against hypothetical data has been created. This comparative analysis enables to assess the coherence and precision of the payment conditions.

[0137] The contract code functions (WSB codes: C.W.F.A.3. and C.W.F.S.2., for example) as a point of reference for individual contracts, differentiating between the slab contract and the windows contract.

[0138] The column denoted as "Total Cost Agreed" signifies the payment sum that was mutually settled upon in the contractual provisions.

[0139] Conversely, the column denoting "Total Cost as built Data" represents the sum requested by the contractor. P7995PC00

[0140] Upon examination of the Table 2 , it is evident that the stated payment sum for the slab contract corresponds with the requested amount .

[0141] Nonetheless , according to an example , with regards to the contract for windows , the requested sum surpasses the previously established payment amount , leading to the nonapproval of the payment in accordance with the predetermined conditions .

[0142] This comparative analysis enables to evaluate the coherence and compliance of the information with the mutually accepted payment conditions . The purpose of conducting such evaluations is to ensure transparency in the payment approval process and detect any possible P7995PC00 discrepancies or deviations from the initial agreement .

[0143] Table 2 is an example of how the of the above-mentioned decision DC can be expressed . The resulting construction information RCI may also include performance metrics , energy consumption, and operational parameters .

[0144] Upon completion of data analysis and comparison, the subsequent course of action involves the integration of the obtained results into the blockchain system through the utili zation of an oracle or a reliable intermediary . The integration in question guarantees both transparency and immutability throughout the payment process . The virtual machine is employed for the purpose of carrying out payment transactions in accordance with predetermined conditions and agreements .

[0145] During this procedure , the virtual machine conducts a comparison between the assessed data and the contractual conditions that are saved within the smart contracts .

[0146] 8 . SPECIFIC EXAMPLE OF THE E IGTH STEP 108

[0147] 8 . 1 Payment procedure

[0148] Upon ful filment of the requisite criteria, the remittance is executed and duly documented on the blockchain ledger (ninth step 109 ) . Conversely, in the event that the conditions are not met , the remittance is not executed ( tenth step 110 ) . P7995PC00

[0149] ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

[0150] It is noticed that the utili zation of blockchain technology in the process of payment veri fication furnishes a decentrali zed and secure platform for the execution and documentation of transactions . The elimination of intermediaries and the assurance of accuracy and integrity in the payment process are achieved through this approach . The system utili zes smart contracts and oracles to automate payment veri fication according to predetermined rules , thereby increasing ef ficiency and mitigating the potential for errors or fraudulent behavior .

[0151] As clear from the above description, the proposed process encompasses additional extensions of the BIM model beyond inspection, including assembly manufacturing and 3D printing .

[0152] The combination of building information modeling (BIM) software , assembly manufacturing, 3D printing, and robotics opens up exciting new avenues for improving ef ficiency in the building industry . BIM models allow for the generation of exact and accurate speci fications for assembly manufacturing, which in turn streamlines the manufacture of components while decreasing mistakes . Incorporating 3D printing also paves the way for the production o f unique components and quick on-site assembly . P7995PC00

[0153] The described method 100 , taken as a whole , provides a simpli fied and technologically sophisticated means of carrying out construction agreements , deploying smart contracts , making use of BIM, and incorporating robots . In the end, it enhances proj ect ef ficiency, construction quality, and risk reduction by allowing for automated execution, real-time communication, and data-driven decision-making .

Claims

P7995PC00CLAIMS1. Automatic building inspection and payment method comprising : providing a smart contract (SM) over blockchain basing on contract terms and agreements between involved parties; the smart contract (SM) containing desired technical construction information (TI) and payment information (PI) ; providing a building software model (BIM) including construction data related to the desired technical construction information (TI) and a representation of a design of a building; providing building elements (BE) and / or a building (BU) corresponding to the building software model (BIM) ; inspecting (104) the building (BU) and / or the building elements (BE) by employing robotic inspection devices (SD) and / or by human workforces and defining resulting construction information (RCI) with respect the building software model (BIM) ; creating (105) a digital twin (DTW) by integrating the building software model (BIM) with said resulting construction information (RCI) ; the digital twin (DTW) representing a virtual replica of said building and / or building elements (BE) as constructed;P7995PC00 comparing (106) the digital twin (DTW) with building software model (BIM) to define discrepancies (DS) ; processing (107) the discrepancies (DS) and the smart contract (SM) to issue a decision (DC) on the satisfaction of the contract terms and agreements; triggering (108) a payment procedure according to said decision (DC) .

2. Method (100) according to claim 1, wherein: providing a smart contract (SM) comprises generating (101) the smart contract; providing the building software model comprises: creating (102) the building software model (BIM) ; providing the building elements (BE) and / or the building (BU) comprises: constructing (103) the building elements (BE) and / or the building (BU) by employing robotic construction apparatuses (CA) associated to the building software model (BIM) ;3. Method (100) according to claim 1, wherein: said desired technical construction information (TI) about a building element (BE) comprises: identifier of the building element, description of the building element, size of the building element, quantity of the building element, material of the building element; said payment information (PI) comprises: total costP7995PC00 for a building element, recompense for contract cancellation, finish time.

4. Method (100) according to claim 2, wherein creating (102) a building software model (BIM) comprises : employing a Work Breakdown Structure algorithm to organize and classify aspects of a design project concerning said and / or building elements (BE) ; employing a 3D design review package to facilitate quantity take off, clash detection, and assembly verification .

5. Method (100) according to claim 2, wherein creating (102) the building software model (BIM) comprises: generating (110) a robot assembly software (RAS) comprising instructions for aligning, placing and assembling the building elements (BE) employing robotic construction apparatuses (CA) ; generating (111) a control code (CCP) configured to control 3D printers to produce at least part of the building elements (BE) ; generating (112) an inspection robot control software (IRCS) comprising inf ormation / data allowing inspection robots to carry out: localization, navigation and motion planning .

6. Method (100) according to claim 5, wherein the robotP7995PC00 assembly software (RAS) and the robot control software are compliant with a Robot Operating System.

7. Method (100) according to claim 2, wherein creating (102) the building software model (BIM) comprises: analyzing project requirements, architectural drawings and documentation of a building (BU) ; employing Work Breakdown Structure code to organize and classify project aspects.

8. Method (100) according to claim 7, wherein creating (102) the building software model (BIM) further includes: performing clash detection by finding potential conflicts by combining together 3D models of architectural elements (BE) .

9. Method (100) according to claim 2, wherein constructing (103) the building elements (BE) and / or the building (BU) comprises : performing a robotic assembling (113) of prefabricated elements to obtain assembled elements; performing a 3D printing (114) of at least part of said building elements (BE) ; constructing the building (BU) by employing the assembled elements and the building elements (BE) .

10. Method (100) according to claim 1, wherein inspecting (104) the building and / or the building elements (BE)P7995PC00 comprises : providing supervisor devices (SD) operating according at least one of the following technologies: Artificial Intelligence, Augmented Reality, Virtual Reality, Light Detection and Ranging, Extended Reality, Mixed Reality, hammer sonic test.

11. Method (100) according to claim 1, wherein said discrepancies (DS) comprises at least one of the following: cracks, surface flaws, changes in the quality of material; variations on the structural integrity.12 . Method (100) according to claim 1, wherein said discrepancies (DS) comprises a difference between a total cost as agreed and a total cost as built.

13. Method (100) according to claim 1, wherein processing (106) said smart contract (SM) and said digital twin(DTW) comprises: providing an oracle acting as a bridge between the digital twin (DWT) and the smart contracts(SM) .

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