Digital Archiving of Abandoned Boiler Rooms in the Context of Urban Renewal: A Case Study of Changqing Community, Shenyang, China

Abstract

In 2002, the reform of the heating system in Shenyang led to the abandonment of a large number of boiler rooms. However, due to their unique technological requirements, these boiler rooms possess significant potential and value for transformation and reuse. Against the backdrop of urban renewal, the renovation and utilization of these structures hold profound research and practical significance. Based on this context, this study systematically surveyed and documented existing boiler rooms in the old town of Shenyang through comprehensive census, detailed investigation, and precise mapping. In utilizing advanced tools such as CAD and RHINO for modeling and D5 for rendering and integrating building information modeling (BIM) with Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) systems, a robust SUPERMAP database platform was established. Compared to previous approaches, the adoption of state-of-the-art UAV and 3D geographic information system (3DGIS) platforms enabled data visualization and digital archiving, providing a clear and comprehensive database for future research on this building type and laying a solid foundation for further renovation and adaptive reuse.

1. Introduction

The heating boiler room, once a ubiquitous supporting infrastructure in the northern urban and town areas of China, has gradually been phased out by centralized heating systems due to economic and industrial transformations [1]. These now-idle boiler rooms hold extraordinary significance in the collective memory of Shenyang’s residents. Nowadays, “boiler room warming up” has become a popular phrase. In recent years, the concept of urban renewal has gradually evolved from “large-scale demolition and construction” to an approach that integrates “retention, renovation, and demolition”. This shift emphasizes the activation and utilization of existing buildings to enhance the quality of urban space. The boiler room, as a typical stock building, has become an important issue in the renewal of old residential communities.

Research on digital archiving and the management of industrial heritage and existing buildings has established a certain foundation. For instance, the UK’s National Heritage List utilizes digital archives to record architectural information, thereby providing decision-making support for the preservation and reuse of historic buildings [2]. Similarly, Germany’s cultural heritage information system integrates surveying and mapping data with historical documents to achieve the comprehensive information management of heritage buildings [3,4]. However, these traditional heritage archival systems primarily rely on documents, images, and mapping data, with limited integration of 3D modeling technology. In China, digital archives for historical buildings and industrial heritage also exist, but they predominantly focus on text, pictures, and surveying drawings, lacking the integration of higher-precision spatial information [5].

Currently, the modeling, management, and conservation of built heritage are increasingly being supported by a range of information technologies, including three-dimensional computer graphics, photogrammetry, laser scanning, geographic information systems (GISs), and building information modeling (BIM) [6]. Among these, the GIS is primarily utilized for the management, querying, and analysis of spatial information and its attribute relationships, and it has been extensively applied in the development of heritage databases at regional and national levels [7]. Through the 3D GIS platform, three-dimensional architectural heritage models can be integrated into websites to enable online access, management, and display, thereby significantly enhancing data interoperability and sharing [8]. For instance, a historical research project [9] employed a 3D GIS platform to develop an online system for managing and analyzing 3D models, allowing researchers to view and compare different models in real time. The GIS has also evolved from a traditional data management tool to a heritage modeling tool, playing a crucial role in the programmatic modeling of large-scale heritage scenes [10]. Against the backdrop of the rapid advancement of digital technology, the application of 3D GIS platforms has further propelled research on the archiving and renovation of existing buildings, offering a more comprehensive solution for the visual management of building information. In contrast, research in this field in China is still in its nascent stages, particularly regarding the digital archiving and database construction of boiler rooms—a specific building type—where there remains a notable lack of systematic research and application.

1.1. Research Background

In response to the need to enhance urban environments, optimize spatial configurations, and invigorate urban vitality, the concept of urban renewal has garnered increasing attention. As China’s urbanization progresses, the challenges posed by old residential communities have become more pronounced, necessitating the repurposing and revitalization of numerous abandoned structures. The approach to urban renewal has evolved from the traditional paradigm of “demolition, renovation, and preservation” to a more nuanced strategy of “preservation, renovation, and selective demolition”. This shift prioritizes the protection and adaptive reuse of existing structures, advocating for small-scale, incremental interventions, and micro-transformations [11]. Despite this shift, the information regarding abandoned boiler rooms in Shenyang remains largely uncharted, with no systematic surveys or inventories in place. This gap in data hampers the effective progress of urban renewal initiatives.

In the context of urban renewal, contemporary urban development has shifted from the previous model of “large-scale demolition and construction” to a more nuanced approach centered on “micro-transformation”. This shift is particularly evident in the transformation of old residential communities, which has become a vital component of urban renewal initiatives. The boiler rooms in these old communities, once essential infrastructure for residential construction in Northeast China, have long been a quintessential and distinctive feature of Shenyang’s urban landscape. However, with the advancement of science and technology and the increasing emphasis on low-carbon requirements, these boiler rooms have gradually faded from their historical prominence, with many now either idle or demolished. The evolving urban context, driven by new societal needs and catalyzed by public policies, offers new opportunities for the repurposing of these old boiler rooms. Although their original function of distributed heating has been replaced with centralized urban heating, the potential for infusing these old buildings and spaces with new functions presents an opportunity to revitalize the city’s old streets and communities, breathing new life and vitality into them [12]. The author aimed to address the current data gap by conducting a comprehensive survey of abandoned boiler rooms in old residential communities and establishing a detailed database. This initiative seeks to promote the reuse of these structures and reinvigorate their value and functionality within the urban fabric.

1.2. Research Purpose

Investigation and Evaluation of the Current Status of Abandoned Boiler Rooms in Shenyang’s Old Town. As a major metropolis in Northeast China, Shenyang has experienced rapid development. However, many idle buildings, including boiler rooms, have not been utilized and are gradually disappearing from the historical stage. The significance of this study lies in reaffirming the importance of boiler rooms as integral components of numerous old residential communities. By examining their historical value over time, analyzing the evolution of their functional spaces, and understanding the developmental trajectory of the city through their materials and construction techniques, we gain deeper insights into the design ethos of industrial architecture [13]. This research aims to analyze the characteristics of the extant abandoned boiler rooms in Shenyang, categorize them based on different construction periods, materials, and locations, and identify representative examples. Through this classification, we seek to recognize the inherent value of these boiler rooms and explore feasible transformation and operational strategies. Ultimately, the goal is to achieve significant value enhancement through minimal cost and small-scale investment, thereby revitalizing these structures [12].

Revitalizing Boiler Rooms to Refresh Old and New Communities. The small boiler rooms in Shenyang were the standard infrastructure of old residential communities in the last century, serving as essential community facilities. Their strategic locations make them ideal for enhancing the infrastructure of old communities. By repurposing these structures, we can provide residents with rich cultural resources and dedicated cultural spaces, thereby improving the regional spatial environment. This transformation can turn these sites into key functional nodes within their respective areas, advancing the public supporting construction of old communities and offering innovative solutions for enhancing the living environment of old residential areas [14]. Ultimately, this effort aims to improve human settlements and exemplify the sustainable development of old communities.

1.3. Research Significance

The theoretical significance of this paper is to implement and promote the concept of sustainable development. According to the Brundtland Report [15], sustainable development is defined as “development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs”. In the current context, the nation vigorously advocates for sustainable development, which is the trend of the times, and sustainable development should be implemented in every place and every building [16]. An abandoned boiler room’s inherent “carbon-burning” process is not environmentally friendly and represents an unsustainable form of development. Long-term abandonment is also not a desirable solution. Therefore, the author conducted a large-scale survey of such abandoned boiler rooms, identified the existence of this “unsustainable development”, and promoted their new functions in the contemporary era to realize the concept of sustainable development. This study also provides a new direction for the research of industrial buildings. Boiler room industrial buildings are a special type of structure, primarily characterized by industrial production or related functions but may be more flexible and diversified in design and construction. This type of building is often closely related to the industrial sector but is not limited to traditional modes of industrial production. This type of industrial building may encompass a variety of facilities, including but not limited to manufacturing plants, production workshops, warehouses, research and development laboratories, etc. Compared with traditional industrial buildings, the design and construction of such industrial buildings may place greater emphasis on sustainability and environmental protection while also pursuing more efficient space use and flexibility to adapt to changing market needs and technological advances. In addition, this type of industrial building also emphasizes technological innovation and digital applications to improve production efficiency and quality. In summary, this type of industrial building is a functional and flexible structure designed to meet the diverse needs of industrial production and related fields.

The boiler rooms in old residential communities examined in this study transcend the conventional scope of industrial buildings. They are no longer confined to traditional settings such as warehouses and printing factories but represent a novel category of industrial structures—specifically, heating boiler rooms within old residential communities. This shift introduces a new dimension to the field of industrial architecture, broadening the research scope and enriching the content for scholars across various disciplines. This paper aims to construct a comprehensive system to provide an all-encompassing and detailed understanding of the boiler rooms in Shenyang’s old town. Given that these structures have been in place for a long time and lack systematic data for reference, this study employed a variety of advanced software tools to build a robust database. This database fills the existing gap by systematically cataloging the abandoned boiler rooms in Shenyang’s old town through surveys, investigations, and detailed mapping. With this database, this paper provides a comprehensive inventory of these boiler rooms, clearly listing their basic locations, names, scales, floor plans, and 3D models. This approach not only visually displays the number of boiler rooms but also makes it easy to locate and understand the relevant information about each boiler room within the database, thereby significantly enhancing the efficiency of their reuse. Through these methods, we can construct a comprehensive and complete database system, enabling relevant scholars and researchers to gain holistic and efficient insight into the boiler rooms in Shenyang’s old town.

The practical significance of this paper is to advance the development of an information database for abandoned boiler rooms in Shenyang. The numerous abandoned boiler rooms in Shenyang’s old residential communities stand as tangible evidence of the city’s developmental trajectory, and their systematic surveying and mapping are of paramount importance. During the comprehensive survey and investigation, it was revealed that the mere mapping and cataloging of boiler rooms in simple statistical tables were inadequate for subsequent information retrieval and related transformation initiatives. Geographic information systems (GISs) offer distinct advantages such as a clear interface, substantial storage capacity, convenient querying, and graphic visualization capabilities, all based on a “map” foundation [17]. These features are instrumental in facilitating the construction of an information database for Shenyang’s abandoned boiler rooms. The database provides solid support for boiler room transformation. In the process of mapping and archiving the abandoned boiler rooms in Shenyang’s old town, the integrated use of field mapping, UAV photogrammetry, 3D laser scanning, and GISs has significantly enhanced the efficiency and accuracy of data acquisition, processing, and management. The final results will not only establish a comprehensive and accurate digital archive for the boiler rooms but also promote a scientific approach to their transformation, providing robust support for their long-term and rational utilization. Moreover, the database enriches renovation methods for old residential communities. Currently, the renovation of old residential communities primarily focuses on the improvement of equipment and facilities, such as road optimization, parking lot optimization, and environmental enhancement, with limited attention given to existing buildings, especially industrial structures like boiler rooms. This paper provides a comprehensive database of boiler rooms in Shenyang’s old town, laying the foundation for subsequent renovations aimed at enhancing community quality.

2. Scope and Methods

2.1. Definition of Research Objectives and Scope

Boiler Room Concept Definition. A boiler room is a facility where the working medium water is heated to produce steam, hot water, or other working media with specified parameters (temperature, pressure) and quality, using the heat energy released by fuel combustion or other sources of thermal energy [18]. The following basic provisions apply to boiler rooms: they apply to the design of new, expanded, and rebuilt industrial, civil, and regional boiler rooms, and boiler room design must meet the requirements of safe production, environmental protection, and energy conservation [19]. For instance, the location of a boiler room should consider the surrounding environment to avoid adverse effects on densely populated areas. Therefore, the boiler rooms examined in this paper are mostly situated at the center of residential communities, with open surroundings. A boiler room can be divided into six main areas: the boiler main area, fuel supply area, water treatment area, auxiliary equipment area, control operation area, and steam or hot water conveying area [20]. Based on their use, boiler rooms can be categorized into industrial boiler rooms and civil boiler rooms. The focus of this paper is on civil boiler rooms, which primarily provide heat energy for residential life and public buildings, including winter heating and domestic hot water supply. The abandoned boiler rooms in old residential communities once provided residents with a warm indoor environment during winter and ensured the availability of hot water for daily use. Boiler rooms can also be classified by the type of fuel they use, including coal, oil, gas, biomass, and electric boiler rooms. The boiler rooms surveyed in this study were all coal-fired, featuring typical coal transport channels. In terms of heating scale, boiler rooms can be divided into large, medium, and small sizes. The survey mainly covered small- and medium-sized boiler rooms. Small boiler rooms have limited heating capacity, typically serving small buildings with a heating area generally below tens of thousands of square meters. Medium-sized boiler rooms have a moderate heating scale, meeting the needs of medium-sized areas, such as large residential neighborhoods, with a heating area usually ranging from hundreds of thousands to millions of square meters.

The boiler rooms examined in this paper refer specifically to those abandoned structures located within the old residential communities of Shenyang’s old town. From an architectural standpoint, the age of these boiler rooms is typically closely correlated with the construction period of the communities themselves. As a significant industrial hub in Northeast China, the majority of these old residential communities were established between the 1950s and 1990s, with the accompanying boiler rooms often constructed concurrently with the residential areas. These boiler rooms are predominantly coal-fired, characterized by relatively outdated technology, low levels of automation, manual operation, large equipment sizes, low operational efficiency, and significant pollution emissions.

Census Scope Definition.

(1) Time Frame. The period under investigation in this paper spans from 2002, when central heating was introduced in Shenyang, to the present day. Since 2002, heating companies in Shenyang, a region characterized by severe cold winters, have adopted central heating systems. This shift has rendered the boiler rooms in old residential communities obsolete and abandoned, as their original function of providing winter heating is no longer required. However, these abandoned boiler rooms possess a unique value that warrants detailed study, prompting the comprehensive survey of these structures. Their unique value can be summarized in three key aspects.

First, the use basis and site conditions: The boiler rooms have a certain foundation for reuse and are located at the center of old residential communities, offering good site conditions and a strong potential for transformation. Their large-span structures facilitate building adaptation and subsequent use, while their central location provides an excellent radiating effect, benefiting the surrounding areas uniformly. Second, their special facade image: The preservation of some old buildings is significant due to their existing use value. In repairing and renovating these old structures and endowing them with new practical functions, their lifespan can be extended. The unique facade of these boiler rooms contributes to their cultural and historical significance. Lastly, the interior space and transformation potential: The large interior space of the boiler rooms is suitable for transformation. Their structural lifespan exceeds their original service life, allowing for adaptive reuse that aligns with the concepts of energy conservation, environmental protection, and sustainable development. The comprehensive survey and subsequent reuse of these boiler rooms represent the cultural continuity of Shenyang’s old town and serve as a testament to its growth.

(2) Distribution Area. Shenyang is located in the cold climate zone of China’s five major climate zones, characterized by a temperate semi-humid continental climate. The city experiences four distinct seasons, with precipitation and heat occurring simultaneously. During winter, Shenyang is influenced by northerly winds from high-latitude inland areas, resulting in cold, dry, and prolonged conditions. The heating season spans from November 1 to March 31 each year, totaling 151 days.

The geographical scope of this study is defined as Shenyang’s old town. Shenyang currently administers 10 municipal districts (Heping, Shenhe, Tiexi, Huanggu, Dadong, Hunnan, Yuhong, Shenbei New District, Sujiatun, and Liaozhong), 1 county-level city (Xinmin), and 2 counties (Kangping and Faku) [21]. The Shenyang old town referred to in this paper encompasses five urban districts: Heping, Shenhe, Dadong, Huanggu, and Tiexi. The survey scope covers the majority of the five districts, with most of the boiler rooms located within the first ring, and a smaller portion situated outside the first ring but within the second ring. Given that the focus of this study is on abandoned boiler rooms in old residential communities, the author defined the geographical scope accordingly. From a temporal perspective, as previously noted, these abandoned boiler rooms are relatively old, necessitating a focus on older towns. Shenyang’s old town, which developed earlier and contains a large number of old residential communities, is particularly significant for investigating abandoned boiler rooms. Considering the fundamental reasons for their construction, during the early to mid-period of Shenyang’s urbanization (specifically the 1970s), the old town coincided with the national industrialization wave, leading to the widespread establishment of boiler rooms, which holds great significance for this survey.

(3) Scope of Service Objects. The scope of service examined in this paper primarily pertains to the abandoned boiler rooms within old residential communities and their surrounding neighborhood environments. Unlike prior studies that focused solely on the boiler rooms themselves, this paper broadens the scope to encompass both the boiler rooms and the communities in which they are situated. In alignment with the context of urban renewal, this study conducted additional surveys and research on these old residential communities. Field investigations revealed that most old residential communities in Shenyang’s old town are in a state of disrepair, characterized by outdated facilities, inadequate safety measures, poor environmental conditions, and suboptimal sanitation, with the majority of residents being elderly individuals. Against this backdrop, the boiler rooms hold special significance and potential for transformation. This study explores the relationship between boiler rooms and their communities, advocating that future transformations should repurpose boiler rooms as public buildings serving the community residents as the primary user group, such as community service centers. This approach aims to address the existing shortcomings of old residential communities and enhance the quality of life for residents, rather than converting them into high-end or for-profit structures like exhibition halls.

2.2. Methodology for Constructing a Comprehensive Information Database for Abandoned Boiler Rooms in Shenyang

In the initial phase of the survey, this study conducted a detailed investigation of the existing abandoned boiler rooms in Shenyang’s old town. These valuable foundational data have established a robust basis for the survey and digital archiving of abandoned boiler rooms from the perspective of urban renewal. The data processing and digital transformation not only optimize the storage, retrieval, and sharing of information but also support high-quality 3D modeling. This visually highlights the potential value of these abandoned facilities in urban renewal and community revitalization. These early efforts provide a scientific basis for subsequent community transformation and reuse strategies.

Taking the boiler room in Changqing Community, Shenhe District, as a case study, this research focused on the digital archiving of abandoned boiler rooms within the context of urban renewal. Utilizing a 3D GIS platform, this study integrated basic research data with current status information of the boiler room to design and implement a spatial database that supports urban renewal and community revitalization. The workflow representing the database construction phase is illustrated in Figure 1. This database not only records the physical characteristics of the boiler room but also evaluates its potential role in urban spatial layout, community function optimization, and environmental enhancement. In constructing this 3D GIS platform, this study actively explores integration pathways with the concepts of urban renewal and community revitalization. This approach addresses multiple technical challenges, including the integration and unified expression of multi-source heterogeneous data, the enhancement of spatial analysis capabilities, and the realization of high-fidelity visualization technology. Through continuous technical iteration and optimization, this study aimed to develop a comprehensive and accurate database of abandoned boiler rooms in Shenyang. This database provides robust data support for urban planners, community managers, and designers, enabling them to make more scientific and informed decisions in urban renewal and community revitalization projects.

2.3. Information Data Collection and Processing for Two-Dimensional and Three-Dimensional GIS Spatial Information Database of Abandoned Boiler Rooms

2.3.1. Collection and Processing of Text Attribute Information Data

The acquisition of text attribute information data primarily relies on research retrieval and field research. To ensure the accuracy and reliability of the data, this study employed multiple sources for cross-validation. The geographic location was determined using the query and positioning functions of Google Maps. Once the project location was precisely identified, key data such as address information, latitude, longitude, and altitude were meticulously recorded with reference to the WGS84 coordinate system [22]. This process not only aided in comprehensively understanding the project background but also laid a solid foundation for subsequent data analysis and processing.

2.3.2. Data Acquisition and Processing of Image and Model Information

The collection and processing of pattern information data form a crucial part of the digital archiving process. This encompasses a variety of data types, including photographic images, mapping vector images, mapping bitmap images, effect images, and 3D models.

Photographic Image Information Data: This primarily consists of current status images and historical images. Most historical images are sourced from relevant research or online platforms (such as the panoramic map feature of Baidu Maps), providing a chronological record of the changes in the abandoned boiler rooms over time. Photographs of the boiler room in Dezeng Lane from 2013, 2022, and 2024 are presented in Figure 2. The current status images were collected through on-site investigations. Depending on the specific conditions, drones or cameras were employed to capture images or detailed views from various angles of the building. These images offer an intuitive representation of the current state of the project.

Mapping Vector Image Information Data: The Huace Navigation RS handheld scanner was utilized for data extraction, enabling the integration of indoor and outdoor coordinate systems to produce high-precision point clouds. Following data processing, the vector contours were then drafted using AutoCAD 2022 software. These included the general layout of the boiler room, detailed floor plans for each level, elevations, sections, and detailed drawings. These CAD drawings are characterized by their high accuracy and professional quality, which not only ensure precision but also streamline subsequent data analysis and processing. Once the drafting was complete, the mapping vector images were exported as PDF files, forming an essential component of the mapping vector image information data. A building outline derived from data processing is depicted in Figure 3.

Effect of drawing image information data: Three-dimensional modeling software, such as Revit 2018, SketchUp 2021, and Rhino 7, was employed to create a digital model of the boiler room. With the built-in positioning camera tool within the modeling software, various viewing angles can be selected for rendering. Additionally, rendering software like D5 and Lumion was applied to simulate the boiler room project scene within a realistic light environment, enhancing the visual effect. The final rendering of the effect drawing image was completed through post-processing software.

Data Acquisition of 3D Model Information: The acquisition of 3D models is primarily achieved through two distinct methods. Firstly, leveraging data obtained from field surveys and mapping, 3D modeling software was utilized to construct the models. While this approach is time-consuming, it ensures the accuracy and authenticity of the models. Secondly, image data were captured using laser scanners or drone-based tilt photography, and subsequently, relevant software was employed to generate three-dimensional models. The color point cloud data and the 3D grid model measured with a UAV, both obtained through data processing, are presented in Figure 4. This method is characterized by its high efficiency and speed, making it particularly suitable for large-scale scene 3D modeling.

2.3.3. UAV Data Information Collection and Processing

Regarding data collection, the UAV utilized in this study was a DJI Matrice 350 RTK (hereafter referred to as DJI M350, DJI Innovations (Da-Jiang Innovations Technology Co., Ltd.), Shenzhen, China), which stands as the flagship model for industry applications. This UAV supports a maximum flight time of 55 min and is capable of transmitting three 1080p video feeds with a range of up to 20 km. Additionally, it can collaborate with 4G networks to address signal blockage issues commonly encountered in complex urban environments. The DJI M350 is a multi-rotor UAV equipped with a D2M camera, designed to provide robust support for measuring buildings in old residential communities. The D2M camera is a mid-range oblique camera that is compatible with mainstream multi-rotor UAVs on the market. It features an integrated cooling and dust removal system, as well as a camera feedback system, which enhances its environmental adaptability and safety performance.

When conducting drone operations in old residential areas, the unique location of boiler rooms must be considered first. These buildings are typically situated within the interior of old residential communities, surrounded by other buildings. Although residential buildings in these areas generally have 5–7 floors, it is still necessary to check whether surrounding buildings exceed the drone’s flight height. Given that these buildings are vertical structures, the D2M camera, a five-lens tilt camera, allows the UAV to vertically ascend to a safe height and then automatically fly horizontally to complete the mapping. This significantly reduces the risk associated with drone operations in older urban areas. Additionally, the DJI M350 is user-friendly for architects without professional UAV flight training, featuring fast installation, simple controls, and the ability to fly and return automatically.

Regarding data processing, the D2M data obtained through oblique photography was processed with DJI Terra for 2D and 3D reconstruction, resulting in OSGB format files that can be easily viewed using commonly available software. Figure 5 illustrates the process of processing UAV-collected raw data using DJI Terra. This study used DasViewer to view the results of data processing, as shown in Figure 6.

2.4. Construction of Abandoned Boiler Room Database for Multi-Source Data Integration

Three-dimensional GIS platforms are widely utilized globally, with notable international examples including Google Earth, Skyline, Virtual Earth, and ArcGIS. In China, prominent 3D GIS software solutions encompass MapGIS 10.3, Drawsee Earth 4.5.1, EV-Globe 5.1, IMAGIS V2.3, CityMaker 8.0, SuperMap iDesktopX 11i (2023), AlaGIS 10.8, GeoGlobe V8.3, and VR Map 3.0, among others [23]. Based on the methodology for establishing the abandoned boiler room database platform, this study, from the perspective of urban renewal and architecture, focused on the transformation and layer management capabilities of GIS models, the compatibility of UVA photogrammetry models, and the integration of BIM data formats with GIS platforms. The SuperMap platform, extensively applied in smart city construction, construction project management, digital ocean exploration, agricultural and forestry development, and municipal environmental protection, was specifically selected for this study. Utilizing its iDesktopX 11i (2023) series software as the foundational platform for the Shenyang abandoned boiler room database, this study successfully imported the real-scene and BIM models obtained through UVA photogrammetry and conducted secondary development. This process effectively integrated multi-source data on the 3D GIS platform.

This study completed the construction of the abandoned boiler room database for multi-source data integration through three stages: data processing, data publishing, and data viewing. Data processing was primarily conducted using SuperMap iDesktopX 11i (2023). Initially, data related to abandoned boiler rooms were collected from various sources, encompassing geographical locations, building information, surrounding environments, vector bitmaps, three-dimensional models, and more. SuperMap’s data conversion tools were then employed to transform data from different formats into those recognizable by SuperMap, such as vector data sets and raster data sets. The converted data were subsequently loaded into SuperMap’s workspace for further processing and analysis. The workflow for integrating multi-source data into the SuperMap platform is illustrated in Figure 7.

To effectively integrate the UVA photogrammetry model with the SuperMap platform, this study first accessed the “tilt photography” tool in SuperMap iDesktop and selected “Generate Configuration File”. Subsequently, the data were optimized by merging the root node to enhance access efficiency. The model format was then converted using SuperMap iDesktop, transforming the 3D model from OSGB to S3M format, which significantly improved the model’s performance in WebGL. Finally, a new workspace and spherical scene were created in SuperMap iDesktop, where the previously generated S3M data were loaded and verified for accuracy before saving the workspace [24]. Through this process, the UVA photogrammetric model rapidly generated three-dimensional data of the abandoned boiler rooms in Shenyang within SuperMap, enabling multi-end sharing and interoperability. For the BIM model, SuperMap’s data conversion tool was utilized to export it into UDBX and IFC data source formats via the Export plug-in, ensuring that every element and component was clearly displayed within SuperMap. The storage of the UVA photogrammetric model and BIM model within SuperMap is illustrated in Figure 8.

3. Results

3.1. Census Outcomes and Analysis

The author conducted a comprehensive survey of the distribution and utilization of boiler rooms in the old residential communities of Shenyang’s old town, covering Heping District, Shenhe District, Tiexi District, Huanggu District, and Dadong District. A total of 96 boiler rooms were identified, with 32 located in Heping District, 33 in Shenhe District, 5 in Tiexi District, 12 in Huanggu District, and 14 in Dadong District. The survey results of existing boiler houses in the Shenyang old town are depicted in Figure 9. The facade materials of these boiler rooms are predominantly red brick and cement mortar, with a small number featuring ceramic veneer. The brick color varies over time and environmental conditions, ranging from dark red to grayish-brown, creating a unique color gradient. Mortar, commonly used for bonding bricks, includes types such as refractory mortar and adiabatic mortar.

Based on the findings from the field research, the project team compiled the basic information and statistical tables of the existing boiler rooms in each district according to the administrative divisions. For illustrative purposes, this paper focuses on Shenhe District as a case study example (see

Table 1. A summary of the survey results of existing boiler houses in Shenhe Block of Shenyang’s old town.

Address	Name	Community	Building Land Occupation	Building Characteristics	Usage
Wencui Road, Shenhe District	Boiler room of Changqing Community	Changqing Community	Above 600 m2	2-story brick–concrete	Idle
Wencui Road, Shenhe District	Boiler room of Xilin Garden Community	Xilin Garden Community	300–600 m2	2-story brick–concrete	Transformation of office
Lane 51, Wenhua East Road, Shenhe District	Boiler room of Fengle Community	Fengle Community	300–600 m2	2-story brick–concrete	Transformation of warehouse and warehouse
Renzao Road, Shenhe District	Boiler room A of Jiqing Community	Jiqing Community	300–600 m2	2-story brick–concrete	Idle
Renzao Road, Shenhe District	Boiler room B of Jiqing Community	Jiqing Community	300–600 m2	2-story brick–concrete	Renovation of private cinemas
Danan Street, Shenhe District	Boiler room of Fanfang Community	Yijingyuan Community	300–600 m2	2-story brick–concrete	Transformation of private companies
Danan Street, Shenhe District	Boiler room with three-heat heating	Yijingyuan Community	Above 600 m2	3-story steel frame structure	Idle
Danan Street, Shenhe District	Boiler room of Duofu Community	Duofu Community	300–600 m2	2-story brick–concrete	Idle
Huigong East 2nd Street, Shenhe District	Boiler room of Huigong Community	Huigong Community	Below 300 m2	1-story brick–concrete	Transformation of heat exchange station
Lingwen Street, Shenhe District	Boiler room of Wangyuan Community	Wangyuan Community	Below 300 m2	2-story brick–concrete	Transformation of heat exchange station
Lingwen Street, Shenhe District	Boiler room of Heyi Community	Heyi Community	Below 300 m2	2-story brick–concrete	Transformation of community office
Huigong Street, Shenhe District	Boiler room of Zegong Community	ZIGONG Community	Above 600 m2	2-story brick–concrete	Continuous heat exchange station
Huigong South 2nd Road, Shenhe District	Boiler room of Youyou Community	Friendly community	Above 600 m2	3-story brick–concrete	Warehouse
Xiaobeiguan Street, Shenhe District	Boiler room of Kaixuan Community	Triumph Community	Below 300 m2	2-story brick–concrete	Continuous heat exchange station
Shiwei Road, Shenhe District	Boiler room of Shendian Community	Electric Power Bureau Community	Below 300 m2	2-story brick–concrete	Idle
Shisanwei Road, Shenhe District	Boiler room of Shandong Miao Community	Shandong Miao Community	Above 600 m2	3-story steel frame structure	Idle
Shisanwei Road, Shenhe District	Boiler room of Nanyijing Community	Nanyijing Community	300–600 m2	2-story brick–concrete	Continuous heat exchange station
Guangchang Road, Shenhe District	Boiler room of Guangchang Community	Guangchang Community	300–600 m2	2-story brick–concrete	Heating company
North Renxiao Road, Shenhe District	Boiler room of Wenhua Community	Maoyuan Community	300–600 m2	2-story brick–concrete	Idle
Wanshousi Street, Shenhe District	Boiler room of Xinghua Community	Xinghua Community	Below 300 m2	2-story brick–concrete	Idle
Nansanjing Street, Shenhe District	Boiler room of Caihang Community	Caixing Community	300–600 m2	3-story steel frame structure	Transformation of community service stations
Dongshuncheng Street, Shenhe District	Boiler room of Gonghe Road Area	Gonghe Lane Community	300–600 m2	2-story brick–concrete	Transformation of continuous heat exchange station
No. 47–1, Barwei Road, Shenhe District	Boiler room of Jinhua Community	Jinhua Community	300–600 m2	2-story brick–concrete	Idle
Shengli North Street, Shenhe District	Boiler room of Shen Tie Jiayuan	Shen Tiejiayuan Community	300–600 m2	2-story brick–concrete	Idle
Daxi Road, Shenhe District	Boiler room of Fu’an Lane Community	Fu’an Lane Community	300–600 m2	3-story brick–concrete	Idle
Fengtian Street, Shenhe District	Boiler room of Hehou Community	Hehou Community	Above 600 m2	4-story brick–concrete	Idle
Xinglin Street, Shenhe District	Boiler room of Xinglin Garden Community	Xinglin Garden Community	300–600 m2	3-story brick–concrete	Idle
Xinglin Street, Shenhe District	Boiler room of Chengping Community	Chengping Community	Below 300 m2	2-story brick–concrete	Transformation of private housing
Zhongshan Road, Shenhe District	Boiler room of Qixing Community	Qixing Community	Below 300 m2	2-story brick–concrete	Idle
Xiaoxi Road, Shenhe District	The boiler room of the community in the north of the printing factory	North Community of Shenyang Printing Factory	Below 300 m2	2-story brick–concrete	Transformation of private use
North Halal Road, Shenhe District	Boiler room of Shilong Community	Shilong Community	Below 300 m2	2-story brick–concrete	Idle
Youai East Lane, Shenhe District	Boiler room of Youai East Community	You’ai East Community	Below 300 m2	2-story brick–concrete	Transformation of warehouse
Back Lane of Gaotai Temple, Shenhe District	Boiler room of Yongquan Railway Community	Yongquan Railway Community	300–600 m2	4-story brick–concrete	Idle

). A visualization of the survey results for the existing boiler house in Shenhe District, Shenyang old town, is presented in Figure 10.

This study investigated the distribution patterns of boiler rooms across five key dimensions: geographical distribution, usage status, scale, building structure, and number of floors. This comprehensive analysis aims to deepen the understanding of the current state of boiler rooms. The visualization of statistical results is presented in Figure 11, covering five aspects. The findings are summarized as follows:

(1) Based on the existing distribution of boiler rooms, the study area was divided into five administrative districts: Heping, Shenhe, Tiexi, Huanggu, and Dadong. The data reveal that the number of retained boiler rooms in Heping District and Shenhe District significantly exceeds that of the other three districts, accounting for 33% and 34% of the total, respectively. Together, they constitute 67% of the total number, which is more than half, as shown in Figure 11a.

(2) Based on the usage status of the boiler rooms, they are categorized into four types: abandoned and idle, privately owned for profit, public facilities, and heat exchange stations. Among them, 54 are abandoned and idle, representing 55% of the total. Nine are used for storage or private ownership, accounting for approximately 10% of the total. Seventeen are currently functioning as heat exchange stations, making up about 20% of the total. Only 16 sites have been repurposed as public facilities, which is just around 15% of the total, as shown in Figure 11b.

(3) Based on the size of the boiler rooms, they can be classified into three categories: small-scale (below 300 m²), medium-scale (300 m²–600 m²), and large-scale (above 600 m²). The results indicate that the majority of the boiler rooms are of medium scale, with a total of 53, accounting for approximately 55%. There are 28 small-scale sites, representing about 30%, and 15 large-scale sites, making up around 15%, as shown in Figure 11c.

(4) Based on the building structure of the boiler rooms, they can be categorized into two types: brick–concrete structures and high-frame structures. The brick–concrete structure is predominant, with a total of 92 sites, accounting for approximately 96% of the total. Only four sites were identified as having a high-frame structure, as shown in Figure 11d.

(5) Based on the number of floors, boiler rooms can be classified into three categories: single-story, two-story, and three-story or above. The majority of the boiler rooms are two-story structures, with a total of 73, accounting for approximately 75% of the total. There are 19 boiler rooms with three or more stories, and only 4 are single-story structures, as shown in Figure 11e.

Based on the data analysis presented above, the following patterns can be identified:

(1) Geographical Distribution: The retention of boiler rooms is closely related to their proximity to the old city center. Areas closer to the city center tend to have a higher number and denser distribution of boiler rooms, while those farther away have fewer and more sparsely distributed ones. In communities with one abandoned boiler room, other boiler rooms are often found in the vicinity, indicating a pattern of local clustering.

(2) Scale and Utilization: The size of boiler rooms correlates with their current status. Medium- and large-scale boiler rooms are more likely to have been repurposed and utilized, often for public convenience purposes. In contrast, small-scale boiler rooms are mostly abandoned or used as warehouses and other private uses.

(3) Scale and Number of Floors: The size of a boiler room is related to the number of floors. The ground floor area of a boiler room is generally consistent, with most having a long side measuring less than 25 m. When the ground floor area is similar, boiler rooms with more floors tend to have a larger total area and scale.

(4) Scale and Building Structure: The size of a boiler room is associated with its structural type. High-frame structures are generally larger, with sizes exceeding 600 square meters, while brick–concrete structures are commonly used for small- and medium-sized boiler rooms.

(5) Number of Floors and Building Structure: The number of floors in a boiler room is related to its structural type. Boiler rooms with two or fewer floors typically use brick–concrete structures, while those with three or more floors predominantly use high-frame structures.

(6) Current Status and Community Development: The current status of boiler rooms is closely linked to the development of the surrounding communities. There is a positive correlation between the size of the community and the size of the boiler room; larger communities generally have larger boiler rooms. Additionally, communities with better renewal status are more likely to have repurposed boiler rooms, while those with poorer renewal status are less likely to have done so.

In summary, the current utilization status of boiler rooms in old residential communities is rather pessimistic. The old town is home to a large number of old communities and abandoned boiler rooms, which are rarely given attention or valued by the government and architectural design practitioners. As a result, they fail to realize their potential value and contribute to community vitality. This investigation reveals that boiler rooms converted into warehouses or used for private operations tend to have a negative impact on the surrounding community streets. Examples of boiler rooms repurposed for private use are shown in Figure 12. For example, in Figure 12a, the private heating room is overly focused on its own interests, leading to complaints from residents about insufficient heating; in Figure 12b, the private badminton hall disrupts the daily activities of community residents; in Figure 12c, the private residential accommodation negatively impacts the internal environment of the community. In contrast, boiler rooms repurposed as public convenience facilities generally fare better. However, due to the lack of thoughtful design and in-depth planning, most of these facilities have a limited impact and low utilization rates. In fact, the majority of boiler rooms still hold potential for transformation and utilization, with their value being comprehensively assessed based on the surrounding community environment, as well as their own scale and structure. Generally speaking, boiler rooms with better structural integrity, larger scale, and better preservation are more suitable for transformation. Those located closer to the main and secondary roads of the city, and in areas with a higher concentration of residents, hold greater transformation value. More careful consideration should be given to the transformation of boiler rooms that are far from urban roads and deep within communities [25]. In considering the long-term development prospects of the surrounding community, the renovation of public convenience facilities is more conducive to revitalizing the surrounding community environment than private renovations.

3.2. Application of Database Platform—Taking the Boiler Room of Changqing Community in Shenhe District as an Example

3.2.1. Information Retrieval and Management

On the SuperMap iDesktopX 11i platform, the information query function for abandoned boiler rooms serves as an efficient tool for users. It not only enables the rapid retrieval and detailed browsing of information related to abandoned boiler rooms in old communities but also provides robust digital support for the planning, implementation, and management of these projects. This functionality significantly promotes the effective reuse of urban space, accelerates community modernization, and offers a wealth of information and inspiration for urban planners, community managers, and the public. Project information on abandoned boiler rooms can be queried using attributes such as project name or geographical location. The storage of boiler room census information in SuperMap is illustrated in Figure 13. By executing the “SQL query” and inputting the project name as the query condition, for example”, Changqing Community boiler room”, the system will promptly respond by highlighting the selected project and presenting its key information in detail, including usage status, building scale, building photos, community impact, and other relevant details. The platform’s information query function not only enhances the efficiency and scope of urban renewal and community management but also supports sustainable urban development, strengthens community cohesion, invigorates old communities, and improves residents’ quality of life, providing essential technical assistance and decision-making support.

After summarizing and comparing the results of the census, this study selected Changqing Community and its boiler room as a representative case to demonstrate the application of the database platform. Changqing Community, located at No. 82 Changqing Street, had its main buildings completed in 1994. Situated in Shenhe District, Shenyang City, the community benefits from convenient transportation and comprehensive supporting facilities, offering residents a high-quality living environment. The boiler room in Changqing Community is positioned in the southeast corner, adjacent to Wencui Road. The area surrounding Changqing Community is well served by an extensive transportation network, with numerous bus and subway lines available. The community is just 198 m away from the Hetai Oriental Park bus station, and additional bus routes such as No. 276 and No. 523 are nearby, facilitating daily travel for residents. In terms of subway access, Changqing Community is conveniently close to Line 10, providing residents with a fast and efficient means of transportation. As an older community primarily consisting of small apartment units, Changqing Community currently has an idle boiler room in its southeast corner. This space is somewhat isolated from residents’ daily activities and recreational patterns, and there is a need to revitalize the community’s vitality.

3.2.2. Information and Application of 3D Architectural Models

The previous survey revealed a consistent one-to-one correspondence between old residential communities and their boiler rooms. The SuperMap platform library can be utilized to extract the image and model data collection of the boiler room in Changqing Community. This includes photographic images, mapping vector images, bitmap images, renderings, and three-dimensional model files. These data provide a systematic expression, comprehensive display, and overall understanding of the building’s form, functional content, and technical connotation. This enables a comprehensive analysis of the overall layout, spatial texture, environmental landscape, building group combination mode, building configuration and facade form, the spatial organization of building functions, and their adaptability to the building structural system and materials, as well as the regional climate environment of the old community and its supporting boiler room [22].

The database collects the building’s image information, including photographic images obtained from field investigations, mapping images, renderings based on 3D model files, and 3D solid models. In reviewing these images and models, a basic understanding of the current state of the boiler room can be achieved. The boiler room of Changqing Community was constructed in the 1970s and is located at Fengle 2nd Street, Wencui Road, Shenhe District, Shenyang City, Liaoning Province. The courtyard area measures 5070 square meters, the building footprint is 1250.79 square meters, and the total construction area is 1529.75 square meters. The boiler room, as the main structure, is situated on the western side of the site. To its east lies the courtyard attached to the main building, while its southern side is adjacent to Wencui Road. The northern side maintains a certain distance from the residential buildings, and the western side features a small door providing direct access to the interior of the community. The general plan of the boiler room in Changqing community is depicted in Figure 14. The building is oriented with its main facade facing east. It features a hybrid structure combining brick–concrete and steel frame elements. The functional layout is divided into three main sections: the boiler room, the production auxiliary room, and the living quarters. The boiler room and some production auxiliary rooms are constructed with steel frames to meet height specifications and functional requirements. The building’s structural columns measure 400 mm × 400 mm. The column spacing for the brick–concrete structure ranges from 4500 mm to 6000 mm, while the steel frame columns are spaced between 6000 mm and 13,200 mm. The building has two usable floors, with a partial third floor serving as a double-height space for the production room. The first floor is 3800mm high, the second floor is 2700 mm high, and the production room reaches a height of 10,000 mm. The production auxiliary rooms include a repair room, instrument calibration room, and laboratory. The living quarters consist of a duty room, dressing room, bathroom, and toilet. On the north side, the water treatment system, heat exchange system, coal transport system, and oil pump room are independently arranged. The first and second floor plans of the boiler room in Changqing community are illustrated in Figure 15.

In this study, the point cloud data and mapping model of the boiler room in Changqing Community were acquired through UAV oblique photography and 3D laser scanning technologies. The professional software Copre was employed to process and optimize the point cloud data. With the utilization of CoProcess and vector extraction, the accuracy and usability of the data were enhanced. The Revit model of the Changqing Community boiler room and the interior color point cloud model obtained through Copre processing are shown in Figure 16. The optimized point cloud data can be imported into CAD software and used as a reference or external link, facilitating subsequent editing and application. Within CAD, two-dimensional drawings of the boiler room, such as general plans, floor plans, elevations, and sections, can be generated based on the point cloud data. The 3D model can efficiently complete internal processing through functions like point cloud slicing, outer contour picking, and elevation setting, significantly reducing the field mapping workload. The SU (SketchUp) 3D model and profile view of the boiler room in Changqing Community are illustrated in Figure 17.

3.2.3. Three-Dimensional Visualization Interaction and Multi-End Display

The two- and three-dimensional linkage is a key feature of the SuperMap platform. For the boiler room in Changqing Community, this linkage means that users can simultaneously browse the precise layout of the two-dimensional map and the immersive effect of the three-dimensional scene using the SuperMap GIS platform. The transition between these two views is smooth and natural, offering a rich and dynamic visual experience. For example, while exploring the three-dimensional scene of the Changqing boiler room, users can easily switch to a two-dimensional map view with simple operations to examine the site layout and surrounding environment. The two- and three-dimensional linkage window of SuperMap is depicted in Figure 18. This integration of two-dimensional and three-dimensional information display allows users to more accurately understand the spatial relationships and attributes of geographical entities. Moreover, the two- and three-dimensional linkage function of the SuperMap platform supports a variety of spatial analysis operations, such as buffer analysis and visual field analysis. These operations can be performed not only on two-dimensional maps but also within three-dimensional scenes, thereby providing users with more flexible and diverse analytical tools.

From the perspective of urban renewal, the SuperMap platform integrates cutting-edge 3D visualization technology, closely combining 2D maps and image information to provide an accurate geometric description of urban assets [26]. This innovative approach not only allows urban planners to intuitively grasp the three-dimensional layout of industrial buildings such as abandoned boiler rooms in communities but also enables urban renewal project teams to efficiently manage planned renovation schemes. This ensures that the use of boiler rooms aligns with the long-term planning of urban development and meets the actual needs of residents, thereby promoting the optimization and upgrading of the urban spatial structure. The upload and browsing record interface of the SuperMap iServer database, as well as the display interfaces for 2D and 3D data, are illustrated in Figure 19, Figure 20 and Figure 21.

One of the primary advantages of utilizing the SuperMap platform is its ability to integrate and visualize data across multiple endpoints. This feature enables users at various levels to access relevant data information based on their specific design activities or management requirements. The database visualization window of SuperMap is depicted in Figure 22.

Non-GIS professional users, such as community residents, can directly access relevant information in the database via web or mobile applications to provide suggestions on the utilization of boiler rooms and the renovation of facilities in old residential communities. This enables the synchronization and sharing of multi-end data between residents and managers. For GIS professionals, such as architectural designers and urban planners, tools like SuperMap iDesktop and SuperMap Online facilitate the processing of two-dimensional and three-dimensional GIS data. These professionals can directly upload processed data through iServer to achieve seamless data collaboration and resource sharing with their teams. Additionally, the published data can be shared with other users for download and utilization. Portal system administrators, including community administrators, are responsible for maintaining the stable operation of the database and managing resources uploaded by daily users. They utilize the management system of SuperMap iPortal 11i to support the refined management of the community [27,28].

This will enhance the engagement of residents in community activities and provide urban planners, community managers, and designers with robust data to support more informed and rational decision making in urban renewal and community revitalization projects.

4. Discussion

In the context of urban renewal, the adaptive reuse of abandoned boiler rooms holds significant practical importance. As a historical testament to urban industrialization and urbanization, boiler rooms not only embody the collective urban memory but also possess unique architectural value and potential for transformation. Through surveys and investigations of abandoned boiler rooms in the old town of Shenyang, it has been observed that most of these structures are centrally located within old residential districts, offering favorable site conditions and strong radiating effects. Their large-span building structures and expansive interior spaces facilitate renovation efforts and can accommodate a variety of functional needs, such as community service centers, cultural activities, and small museums. Moreover, the distinctive façade and historical significance of these boiler rooms render them an integral part of urban culture. Through transformation, they can perpetuate the historical context of the city and enrich the cultural connotations of the community.

Despite the high reuse potential of abandoned boiler rooms, their current utilization status is far from satisfactory. The survey revealed that over half of the 96 abandoned boiler rooms in the old town of Shenyang remain vacant and idle, with only a handful repurposed as public facilities. This indicates that during urban renewal, these unique structures have not received adequate attention. On one hand, the absence of a systematic inventory and robust data support hampers practitioners from fully grasping the distribution and current conditions of these boiler rooms, making it challenging to devise scientific and rational renovation plans. On the other hand, the renovation of boiler rooms involves multiple complex considerations, including building structure, functional requirements, and community context, which significantly increases the technical challenges.

The SuperMap database platform developed in this study offers robust technical support for the adaptive reuse of boiler rooms. In leveraging this platform, the efficient integration and visual presentation of multi-source data related to boiler rooms can be achieved, thereby providing urban planners, community managers, and designers with comprehensive and accurate information. The platform’s two- and three-dimensional linkage capabilities and spatial analysis tools enable users to intuitively comprehend the spatial layout of boiler rooms and their surrounding environment, facilitating the development of more scientific and rational transformation plans. Additionally, the platform’s multi-end data-sharing functionality enhances community participation and elevates the level of refined community management. Given the significant practical importance of reusing abandoned boiler rooms in the context of urban renewal, the construction of a sophisticated database platform and the application of advanced technical means can provide substantial support for their transformation and reuse.

5. Conclusions

Boiler room heating was the predominant heating method adopted by cities in Northeast China at the end of the last century and the beginning of this century. The primary objective of this study was to establish an information database to facilitate the effective transformation and utilization of the numerous abandoned boiler rooms in urban areas. Centered on the construction of a boiler room information database, this research ensured the authenticity and completeness of data through field visits, surveys, and mapping. In the data processing phase, this study employed charts and graphs, in conjunction with research findings, to analyze the current status and patterns, thereby laying the foundation for identifying and addressing subsequent issues. In the database construction phase, the boiler room of Changqing Community in Shenyang was selected as a representative case to deeply explore the methods and processes involved in database development.

Leveraging 3D GIS and other platforms, this study developed a spatial database tailored to support urban renewal and community revitalization. The database addresses critical challenges such as the integration and representation of multi-source, heterogeneous data, the enhancement of spatial analysis capabilities, and the application of high-fidelity visualization technologies. It thereby provides robust and precise data support for urban planning, community management, and urban renewal design.

In the future, the database will have extensive applications in optimizing urban spatial resources, supporting the renovation planning of old urban areas, refining the layout of community public service facilities, and assisting intelligent management platforms in achieving dynamic monitoring and the management of boiler room resources. In the renewal and renovation of buildings, the database will provide detailed data to support comparative analyses of boiler room information, enabling the formulation of context-specific renewal strategies. This will enhance the appearance of old residential communities and contribute to the overall progress of urban renewal in Shenyang. Additionally, the database will supply precise spatial data and historical usage information for boiler house renovation projects, aiding architects and construction teams in assessing the structural integrity, functional requirements, and environmental adaptability of the buildings. Armed with comprehensive building information, architects can optimize functional layouts and evaluate site suitability in conjunction with surrounding environmental data, thereby providing robust support for design schemes. Moving forward, we will also enhance data acquisition methods by integrating multi-source data, such as LiDAR scanning and ground surveys, to improve the accuracy and completeness of the database.

In summary, the construction and application of the comprehensive information database for boiler rooms integrate research on information collection, data integration and classification, digital construction, and linkage with related applications. This effort explores feasible methods, processes, and platform channels, offering new ideas and approaches for the processing and utilization of similar census results.