Summary
- One of the most impactful in the construction industry is digital twins
- Improving the analytics capabilities of BIM is a key feature of Digital Twins
- Virtual construction models can clone every detail of a given building
- Individual components and specific materials are detailed with in-depth information
- Depth of data in these models is crucial and valuable for construction firms
- Detailed digital models can enable better information based on various scenarios in the field
- It is the most detailed model as stakeholders can leverage a virtual copy of the real-world structure
- Construction companies use digital twins to build detailed models of the existing object or structure
- Various simulations can be tested viz. natural lighting, fluid dynamics, HVAC systems, etc.
- Digital Twins convey a greater process-oriented characterization through a combination of IoT, Artificial Intelligence, Software Analytics, and Machine Learning
- Digital Twins are also deployed to leverage better modifications, maintenance, and operations
Transformational advantages of a Digital Twin
- BIM and Digital Twin strategies are built on common principles
- Improve process visibility and support project planning
- Unifies information from initial design for manufacturers, component selection, onsite delivery, etc. to maintenance and operations
- Used in site construction to constantly update information
- Reduction in site visits by stakeholders based on information stored & shared in the digital model
- Manage and minimize change orders based on smart design & project planning to reduce the impact of schedule and budget on the project
- Cost savings by avoiding project rework through data collected by sensors from the job site and updating the As-Built model
- Improved collaboration based on a two-way information flow from the job site to the twin, and the twin to the job site
- Every team stays on the same page with access to real-time data to make informed decisions
- Improved worker safety through real-time tracking worker tracking in unsafe zones based on sensors installed in critical areas to monitor stress and load
- Validate project deliverables and constructability through digital twins for reliable maintenance and operations
- Monitor building safety with sensors installed in the structure to transmit data to the digital model
- Test virtual sequencing and logistics to reduce construction and onsite costs
- Optimize operational performance and sustainability
Resource Administration
- Build an information tunnel between the field and back-office
- Automated data distribution helps resolve resource allocation problems and labor cost bottlenecks
- Jobsites become more affordable and efficient
High-quality and value-packed construction deliverables –
- High-quality deliverables help owners perform structural enhancements
- Offers invaluable insights on perpetual building operations
- Clients can leverage DTs to optimize projects in the future
Connected construction –
- Utilize and share information from a centralized platform
- Update 3D BIM models with automated and constructible information
- 3D models can integrate dimensions, model details, etc. to maintain model and data integrity
A practical example of a Digital Twin.
- Consider multiple high-rise structures working on a centralized HVAC system
- If any element of the HVAC system were to malfunction or perform below the required efficiency, sensors would send data to the digital twin and alert maintenance personnel at the earliest
- This would reduce time-consuming and costly repairs of the HVAC system
- It would also enable greater resident safety and staff safety depending on the type of project
- Owners can leverage a better understanding of their buildings or facilities & manage them accordingly
Key considerations firms need to make before connecting BIM with Digital Twins.
- Better data integrity to leverage effective insights
- Granular data identification for design and operational adoption
- Careful consideration of data interoperability between various technologies
- Comprehensive capture of legacy data with a digital-first approach
- Enable diverse teams to collaborate easily to leverage the best results
- Extensive end-user access for process optimization, cost reduction, and efficient deliverables
Application of Digital twins in AEC and FM, Smart Cities
- Prediction
- Simulation
- Monitoring
- Lifecycle
- Sensing
- Optimization
- IoT
- AI
- BIM
- Knowledgebase
- Linked Data
Optimizing onsite processes using Digital Twins
- Effectively plan out the construction process through timeline planning
- Computer-simulated models to calculate construction materials & tools
- Plan manpower schedules using digital twins for clarity and efficiency
- Monitoring discrepancies and mistakes in real-time
- Proactive project tracking to stay on schedule
- Track hazardous areas on the field using drones and sensors
The process to build a Digital Twin
- Select the right software to build a digital twin viz. Dassault Systems, Procore construction, etc.
- Build the model before construction by recording a digital twin in a computer model
- Setup data-collection tools or devices like sensors, smartphones, IoT devices, etc.
- Analyze and adopt data during the construction process
Transformational breakthroughs in Modular Construction with Digital Twins
- Adopting Digital Twins for Modular Construction can help reduce costs and save construction time
- Simulating onsite assemblies of manufactured components can be simulated to prevent rework and save construction time
- As DT’s have begun playing a major role in modular construction, they can be scaled with these steps:
- Build generative design instead of traditional 2D drawings – helps speed up projects and saves time
- Analyze component performance before building – digital twins help manufacturers analyze component tolerances through expansion, deformation, etc.
- Make data or information accessible to every team and project stakeholder – leverage the power of design algorithms with technical factors to avoid silos
- Capture and analyze data from the modular product – integrating sensors into fabricated components helps designers understand the component performance
Conclusion
- The construction sector can significantly benefit from adopting Digital Twins in the construction sector
- As BIM tools evolve, they need technology that can help unlock new levels of data visibility and coordination
- Improving construction requires a true CDE that not only helps people in the field but augments design and operations as well
- Perpetually improving everything that can be interacted with by combining multiple data sources will be the next step in sustainable construction.
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