Are digital twins the future of construction?
- Nico Pohl
- Nov 26, 2024
- 4 min read
How digital twins are shaping the future of project planning
A digital twin is a virtual representation of a physical object, building, or even an entire city. This computer-generated model enables the real-time collection and visualization of information regarding the condition and functionality of its physical counterpart. This technology is gaining significance in the construction industry, revolutionizing the planning, execution, and maintenance of projects.
In previous decades, 2D scans or physical models, which are usually static, were mostly used in project development. Thanks to modern technology and optimized data processing, dynamic models such as digital twins can now be used. These offer numerous advantages: A digital twin can be continuously fed with up-to-date data, which means it always reflects the current state of the structure and optimizes collaboration between all project stakeholders. Although this technology is still relatively new, it is already showing enormous potential, particularly in large construction projects and in innovative areas of application.
The advantages of the digital twin in the construction industry
Greater transparency thanks to CAD models
Digital twins provides greater transparency than traditional 2D scans or physical models. The virtual replication of a building makes all relevant information – ranging from construction plans and material lists to maintenance requirements - easily accessible and for all stakeholders. This enhances communication and reduces the risk of misunderstandings or errors that often occur in complex construction projects.
Improved decision-making thanks to transparent data
The digital twin also significantly improves decision-making. By utilizing real-time information, it fosters greater transparency, which supports informed choices and minimizes the risk of poor investments. With all decisions grounded in up-to-date data, the likelihood of bad decision making is reduced. This advantage extends beyond the construction phase to the ongoing use and maintenance of the building.
Increased efficiency through real-time data
Another significant advantage is the increase in efficiency. By using digital twins, construction projects can not only be implemented faster, but also more cost-effectively and more precisely. Real-time monitoring of construction progress allows for the immediate identification of deviations, enabling timely countermeasures. This optimization of the construction process helps minimize costly rework.
New business areas through technical progress
Digital twins also create new business opportunities. For example, companies can provide customized maintenance services or host virtual tours of proposed buildings even before construction begins. Digital twins also offer advantages in terms of sustainability by supporting the planning of energy-efficient and environmentally friendly buildings.
Digital twin: Five impressive application examples worldwide
Digital twins are a pioneering technology that is already being used successfully in various construction projects around the globe. Here are five notable examples:
Hinkley Point C nuclear power plant
Construction company BYLOR is using a digital twin to build the UK's first nuclear power station. The virtual models help document complex construction projects in a transparent and understandable manner, making construction processes more efficient. Instead of traditional 2D drawings, the digital twins provide a comprehensive, detailed representation of the structure.
Virtual copy of Shanghai
In Shanghai, the company 51World has created a digital replica of the entire city, built on the Unreal Engine (3D computer graphics game engine). This digital twin covers an area of 3,750 square kilometers and contains detailed models of over 20 prominent buildings, including the Oriental Pearl Tower and the Shanghai Tower. The required data comes from a variety of sources, including sensors, drones and satellites.
Sydney Opera House
The famous Sydney Opera House also uses a digital twin to optimize operations and maintenance processes. The virtual twin provides accurate information about the building and enables more efficient management and an improved visitor experience. Continuous updates keep the model up to date and support the technical and maintenance teams in their daily work.
Changi Water Reclamation Plant
In Singapore, the Changi Water Reclamation Plant utilizes a digital twin that integrates real-time data and simulation techniques to accurately model the plant's operations and forecast future performance. The digital twin helps to improve water quality, provides training opportunities for staff and warns of potential operational disruptions by automatically adapting to real operating conditions.
Amsterdam Schiphol Airport
Amsterdam Airport Schiphol employs a digital twin called the Common Data Environment (CDE) to enhance operational efficiency. This twin collects data from various sources such as BIM (Building Information Modeling) and GIS data as well as real-time information. Over 80,000 airport assets are monitored, with the model continuously updated with new data. In the future, this digital twin will also integrate historical and planned building views.
BIM vs. digital twin
BIM and digital twins are two different approaches to planning and managing buildings.
BIM creates a detailed, static model of a building, which serves as the basis for construction and further planning after approval. This model is not continuously updated during the project and does not provide a comprehensive traceability of the building's development history.
The digital twin, on the other hand, is a living, dynamic model that is constantly updated with current data. It not only displays the status of the construction project but also captures additional information for later analysis and operation of the building. This allows for more accurate monitoring and optimization of the building throughout its entire life cycle.
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References:
Planradar – Link
Lutz Bettels – Link
TheB1M – Link
Catenda – Link
Jim Baumann – Link