Flowing Through Time: An Assessment of the Structural Health of the Suirokaku Aqueduct in Kyoto, Japan

Abstract

This project centers around analyzing the structural health of the Suirokaku Aqueduct and documenting its deformations. This research is important because the Suirokaku Aqueduct is both a functioning aqueduct and a historic landmark of Kyoto. This project completes the beginning stages of historic building information modeling (H-BIM) by collecting relevant documents, recording structural issues, creating a mesh, and analyzing stresses on the aqueduct. H-BIM is important because it provides valuable information on what restoration processes are necessary to preserve a structure's health. Information was collected by visiting the Lake Biwa Canal Museum, interviewing museum curators, contacting engineers who inspect the aqueduct, and speaking with previous researchers of the structure. Prior to the research trip to Japan, a Rhinoceros 3-D (Rhino) model was created based on construction drawings and a small scale physical model was printed. In Japan, photos were taken of all deformations and then a model of the structure was created using photogrammetry. Finite element analysis (FEA) was conducted based on the Rhino model. The results furthered understanding of the cause of deformations, demonstrating that self-weight, wind, and seismic forces might all be contributing to cracking. The site visit demonstrated that there is also likely compatibility cracking. This research supports the validity of H-BIM as well as adds to knowledge on cultural heritage site restoration processes. This work will benefit tourists and researchers involved in the study of H-BIM.