Digital Twin Framework for Built Environment: A Review of Key Enablers

Abstract

The emergence of Digital Twin (DT) technology presents unique opportunities for society by facilitating real-time data transfer from the physical environment to its digital counterpart. Although progress has been made in various industry sectors such as aerospace, the Architecture, Engineering, Construction, and Operation (AECO) sector still requires further advancements, like the adoption of these technologies over traditional approaches. The use of these technologies should become standard practice rather than an advanced operation. This paper aims to address the existing gap by presenting a comprehensive framework that integrates technologies and concepts derived from purpose-driven case studies and research studies across different industries. The framework is designed to provide best practices for the AECO sector. Moreover, it aims to underscores the potential of DT for optimization through overseeing and digital management of the built environment across the entire life cycle of facilities, encompassing design, construction, operation, and maintenance. It is based on an extensive literature review and presents a holistic approach to outlining the roles of Building Information Modelling (BIM), Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Internet of Things (IoT), and other key enablers within the DT environment. These digital tools facilitating the simultaneous evaluation of associated benefits, such as resource savings and future prospects, like monitoring project sustainability objectives.

Strategic Integration of Drone Technology and Digital Twins for Optimal Construction Project Management

“…The case study findings correspond to the literature [9,12,36] discussing improvements in safety and security in construction projects. Using aerial imaging to analyze data helps identify potential risks and implement appropriate prevention strategies, consistent with safety and security compliance outlined in BIM.…”

“…The case study aligns with the literature [9,12] discuss enhancements in planning and coordination for construction projects. Using drone data to improve design and structure distribution contributes to better coordination between work teams and reduces conflicts in execution.…”

“…The study argues that drones play a crucial role in improving the efficiency and quality of infrastructure design in construction projects. Post-disaster assessments, such as examining damage to a nuclear plant [12], demonstrate that drones provide valuable information for future designs, enhancing safety and flexibility [9,13].…”

Influence of air flow features on alpine wind energy potential

“…Integrating the information on the impact of complex terrain phenomenon with machine learning [i.e. Dujardin and Lehning (2022)] and Digital Twin and its integration to Geographical Information System (GIS) (Agostinelli et al, 2022;Yousef et al, 2023;Piras et al, 2024) will also increase the accuracy of monitoring and performance prediction of wind turbines. The present research acts as a step forward in accurately estimating potential wind power and optimally using it for renewable energy production, particularly during periods when it is most needed, i.e., the winter season when power demand is high and other renewable sources are limited.…”

Scalable Compositional Digital Twin-Based Monitoring System for Production Management: Design and Development in an Experimental Open-Pit Mine

“…Production control and optimization: Dynamic manufacturing environments require continuous monitoring and optimization [12,13]. DTs use real-time data to optimize throughput by adjusting controllable parameters [14]. They also react in real time to disturbances on the shop floor [15].…”