Cyber-physical systems integration of building information models and the physical construction

Abstract

Purpose – In spite of the benefits of virtual models in the building and construction industry, the full potential of these models, especially in the construction and operation phases, remains largely unrealized. With the increasing developments in information and communication technology, a number of attempts have been made to extend the use of these models, through the development of integration approaches and technologies. However, the issue of integrating the virtual model and the physical construction such as to enable bi-directional coordination, has not been adequately addressed. Thus, the purpose of this paper is to investigate the application of a cyber-physical systems (CPS) approach in enhancing bi-directional coordination between virtual models and the physical construction. Design/methodology/approach – This research employs scenario development rapid prototyping to illustrate CPS integration in the construction industry, with a particular focus on facilitating bi-directional coordination. The proof-of-concept prototype systems developed were validated using a focus group consisting of industry practitioners. Findings – Bi-directional coordination between virtual models and the physical construction has the potential to improve real-time progress monitoring and control of the construction process, tracking of changes and model updates, information exchange between the design office and the job site, real-time documentation of the as-built status of high-value components and improved sustainability practices. Originality/value – This paper adds value to the construction industry by demonstrating the application of the CPS approach in enhancing bi-directional coordination between virtual models and the physical construction through the development of system architectures, scenarios and prototype systems.

Industry 4.0 and the current status as well as future prospects on logistics

“…Cyber-physical systems (CPS): Industry 4.0 is characterised by an unprecedented connection via the internet or other distributed ledgers and so-called CPS, which can be considered systems that bring the physical and the virtual world together [10]. More precisely, "cyber-physical systems are integrations of computation with physical processes.…”

Industry 4.0 for the Construction Industry—How Ready Is the Industry?

“…Figure 7 shows how the physical and cyber domains are controlled by the planning domain. The bi-directional coordination between the physical domain and cyber domain has the potential to improve real-time progress monitoring and control the construction process, track changes, model updates, and exchange information between the design and operational stages [65]. This is a solution to the infamous construction practice epitomized by the management inefficiencies that result in delays, unforeseen costs, and poor work quality [66].…”

A Methodology for the Development of Interoperable BIM-based Cyber-Physical Systems

“…In [9], two scenarios are proposed that could employ CPS in Construction, based on the view that a CPS is a bidirectional data transfer: steel placement and light fixture monitoring and control.…”