Visualize Digital Twins In The Field

By Author: BIMe
Total Articles: 111
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 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
I. Build an information tunnel between the field and back-office
II. Automated data distribution helps resolve resource allocation problems and labor cost bottlenecks
III. Jobsites become more affordable and efficient
High-quality and value-packed construction deliverables –
I. High-quality deliverables help owners perform structural enhancements
II. Offers invaluable insights on perpetual building operations
III. Clients can leverage DT’s to optimize projects in the future
Connected construction –
I. Utilize and share information from a centralized platform
II. Update 3D BIM models with automated and constructible information
III. 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:

i. Build generative design instead of traditional 2D drawings – helps speed up projects and saves time
ii. Analyze component performance before building – digital twins help manufacturers analyze component tolerances through expansion, deformation, etc.
iii. Make data or information accessible to every team and project stakeholder – leverage the power of design algorithms with technical factors to avoid silos
iv. 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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