Tech & Innovation
THE EVOLUTION OF DIGITAL TWINS IN AECO: BEYOND MODELING TO INTELLIGENT INFORMATION MANAGEMENT By Carl Storms
Digital twins are transforming the AECO industry, but there’s more to them than meets the eye. It’s not enough to simply have a digital twin—the real value lies in how we use the information they provide. We’re moving beyond static models to create dynamic tools that drive smart decision-making and boost operational efficiency. Let’s explore how advanced information management platforms are revolutionizing digital twins. If you’re a VDC, BIM, Engineer, or architecture professional, you’re familiar with the basics. So, let’s dive deeper into how these technologies are shaping our industry. Digital Twins in AECO: More Than Just 3D Models Digital twins in the AECO world aren’t just fancy 3D replicas. They’re complex information ecosystems that capture the unique challenges of built environments. Unlike twins in manufacturing or aerospace, AECO twins account for changing occupancy patterns and evolving urban contexts. Recent studies show impressive results: organizations using digital twins in construction projects have cut overall costs by 15-25 percent and improved project delivery times by 20-30 percent [McKinsey & Company, 2023]. But here’s the kicker—these benefits only materialize when digital twins are paired with robust information management systems. BIM vs. Digital Twins: The Next Step in Evolution We’ve likely all worked with Building Information Modeling (BIM), but digital twins take things to a whole new level. While BIM provides a solid foundation, digital twins incorporate real-time data, AI-driven analytics, and predictive capabilities. The key difference? Dynamism and connectivity. BIM models are typically just that models, but digital twins evolve with the physical asset. This shift allows for unprecedented operational insights and predictive maintenance capabilities. Advanced Information Platforms: The Brain Behind Effective Digital Twins Modern project and information management platforms act as the central nervous system for digital twin ecosystems. These platforms do more than just store data. They offer: • Real-time syncing between physical assets and their digital counterparts • AI-powered analytics for predictive maintenance and performance optimization • Seamless integration with IoT sensors and building management systems • Collaborative environments that break down silos between teams
With a platform that allows you to search and find—every time— users can easily get an impressive 40 percent reduction in information retrieval time and a 30 percent increase in cross-team collaboration efficiency on large-scale construction projects [Journal of Construction Engineering and Management, 2024]. Harnessing Advanced Platforms for Digital Twin Success When we combine sophisticated project and information management tools with digital twins, we see numerous benefits: • Better decision-making through comprehensive, real-time data analysis • Improved lifecycle management from design through operations and maintenance • Increased sustainability through optimized energy usage and resource allocation • Enhanced risk management and compliance through continuous monitoring and predictive analytics A case study of a large commercial development in Singapore demonstrated the power of this combination. By using information management with digital twins, they reduced energy costs by 22 percent and decreased unplanned downtime by 35 percent [Singapore Industry experts are realizing that the future of digital twins isn’t just about the models themselves. It’s about how we manage and use the information they generate. Carl Veillette, CPO of Newforma, puts it succinctly: “The true value of digital twins isn’t in their creation, but in their ongoing evolution and the insights they provide. It’s about turning data into actionable intelligence that drives better outcomes throughout the asset lifecycle.” Looking ahead, we can expect to see: • Greater integration of AI and machine learning for autonomous decision-making • Expansion of digital twins to encompass entire urban ecosystems • Increased focus on cybersecurity and data privacy in digital twin environments • Development of standardized protocols for digital twin interoperability across different platforms and systems • Creating and Feeding the Digital Twin The creation of a digital twin is a complex process involving multiple stages and data sources. It begins with developing a detailed 3D model Building and Construction Authority, 2023]. The Future of Digital Twin Ecosystems
22 Fall 2024
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