*7.6.1 The importance of BIM integration with 3D printing*

The effective combination of BIM technology and 3D printing technology, each of which takes advantage of the advantages of information technology, is a unique new theory and method that has been formed in the process of adapting to the future development of the construction industry. The key to implementing BIM + 3D technology is the need to break the barrier between BIM technology and 3D printing technology. BIM provides building model information, and 3D printers follow the corresponding path to print. In order to enable BIM data to be input to a 3D printer, it is necessary to transform BIM data into 3D printer data code to achieve the industrial production process of prefabricated buildings. The corresponding component information will also be changed in the data processing system. After the path planning is completed, the 3D model composed of all the graphic elements can be visually displayed in BIM software to timely optimize the design plan and modify and monitor the printing process. The 3D printing device is driven by the control system, which generates the printing program code to drive the control system after the path planning is completed. The specific process is as follows: The pumping device with building materials (concrete mixture) is driven by the nozzle through the operation of the robot arm, and the BIM model instructions are printed layer by layer according to the input printing code, forming prefabricated components or directly generating the actual construction. Real-time data during the process of the control system will also be transmitted to the BIM management system to achieve dynamic and visual management of safety, cost, quality and progress during the production of 3D-printed assembled buildings [26]. 3D printing technology can print complex components, it has advantages such as formed the building without a mould in the actual construction, shortening the product manufacturing cycle, reducing costs, energy saving, improving production efficiency, and protect environment [27].

### **7.7 Drone technology**

The drone is a small aircraft that comes with a compact design in different sizes. The drones are operated remotely with the help of a controller. Project managers and AEC specialists use drones to record and report the progress of a construction project. Drones can capture precise project data over a large area in a short period. These data can be used by BIM professionals to revise their model and make the BIM modelling process more reliable.
