An investigation for integration of deep learning and digital twins towards Construction 4.0

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to investigate the potential integration of deep learning (DL) and digital twins (DT), referred to as (DDT), to facilitate Construction 4.0 through an exploratory analysis.Design/methodology/approachA mixed approach involving qualitative and quantitative analysis was applied to collect data from global industry experts via interviews, focus groups and a questionnaire survey, with an emphasis on the practicality and interoperability of DDT with decision-support capabilities for process optimization.FindingsBased on the analysis of results, a conceptual model of the framework has been developed. The research findings validate that DL integrated DT model facilitating Construction 4.0 will incorporate cognitive abilities to detect complex and unpredictable actions and reasoning about dynamic process optimization strategies to support decision-making.Practical implicationsThe DL integrated DT model will establish an interoperable functionality and develop typologies of models described for autonomous real-time interpretation and decision-making support of complex building systems development based on cognitive capabilities of DT.Originality/valueThe research explores how the technologies work collaboratively to integrate data from different environments in real-time through the interplay of the optimization and simulation during planning and construction. The framework model is a step for the next level of DT involving process automation and control towards Construction 4.0 to be implemented for different phases of the project lifecycle (design–planning–construction).

Scientometric Insights of Digital Twins in Industry 4.0

“…The key citing article associated with this cluster is authored by Kor (2023) [49] in the Smart and Sustainable Built Environment journal. Moving further, Cluster #4, the fourth largest, contains 12 members and exhibits a silhouette value of 0.979.…”

Digital Twin for Xiegong’s Architectural Archaeological Research: A Case Study of Xuanluo Hall, Sichuan, China

“…Digital twins, which establishes interactions between the natural and virtual worlds, are becoming essential tools for the AEC community [41] to achieve industry 4.0 with IoT and deep learning [42]. In the future, digital twins are expected to provide new possibilities for networked physical systems through monitoring and simulation.…”

Leveraging digital technologies for circular economy in construction industry: a way forward

“…Other examples can be the development of "CEN/TC 350/SC 1 -Circular Economic in the Construction Sector" in the European Union (European Commission, 2019) that is aimed at incorporating embodied carbon emissions in new constructions, as well as the measures formulated by the UK Green Building Council to overcome barriers for the CE implementation in the UK (Mhatre et al, 2021). However, further technological developments are required to facilitate transitioning the construction industry towards CE (Benachio et al, 2020;Kor et al, 2023;Van Stijn and Gruis, 2020). This is reflected in the findings of Osei-Tutu et al (2022) who explored barriers impeding the uptake of CE in the construction industry and identified technical and technologicalrelated factors as the primary obstacles hindering the successful implementation of CE within the industry.…”

“…, 2021). However, further technological developments are required to facilitate transitioning the construction industry towards CE (Benachio et al ., 2020; Kor et al. , 2023; Van Stijn and Gruis, 2020).…”