A technology in civil construction is here to stay and has brought many gains in productivity and cost reduction. A notable example is the Digital Twin, or Digital Gem, which has revolutionized the way projects are managed.

Continue reading to discover more about this innovative methodology that is redefining the paradigms of construction. By the end of the article, check out: 

• What is the Digital Twin in civil construction?

• What is the purpose of the Digital Twin?

• Advantages of the Digital Twin in civil construction

• Difference between BIM and Digital Gem

• How does the Digital Twin work in practice?

• How to implement the Digital Twin in your projects?

• Want to take the first step towards having a Digital Gem?

What is the Digital Twin in civil construction?

The Digital Twin, or Digital Gem, is an accurate virtual replica of a physical asset. In the case of civil construction, this could be a building, bridge, city, etc.

This "copy" is created based on a 3D model generated from Building Information Modeling (BIM). 

It is updated with information and data so that it is accessible at any time to know the current condition of the site. This can be accomplished through continuous real-time data feeding. 

They can be captured by IoT sensors (internet of things) and 360° images, like those from Construct IN, installed on the physical asset, as well as by scans and photos taken from periodic inspections conducted by inspectors.

With this, it is possible to monitor and simulate the behavior of the physical asset throughout its entire life cycle.

It is worth adding that this methodology can also be applied in other areas beyond civil construction, such as healthcare, logistics, and the automotive industry, for example.

What is the purpose of the Digital Twin?

Civil engineers, using the Digital Twin, can monitor the performance of structures, identify problems before they occur, and make data-driven decisions. 

Moreover, the technology can also be used to plan complex operations and conduct feasibility analyses for new projects.

Advantages of the Digital Twin in civil construction

1. Real-time performance monitoring

One of the main advantages of the Digital Twin is its ability to monitor the structural performance of the site in real-time. 

This allows problems to be identified and resolved quickly before they turn into critical failures. 

Additionally, the Digital Twin enables predictive maintenance planning, where repairs are made based on the real wear and tear of structures, not fixed intervals.

This approach reduces operational costs and increases structural safety.

- Read also: Construction monitoring: what it is and how to improve the process

2. Reduction of rework and resource optimization

Another significant advantage of the Digital Twin is the reduction of rework.

With the digital replica accurately reflecting the current state of the site, it is possible to perform simulations and validate decisions before implementing them in the physical world. This avoids errors and rework, optimizing resource use.

For example, by simulating different construction methods or the impact of design changes on the digital twin, engineers can predict which solutions will be more efficient and cost-effective, minimizing waste of materials and labor.

Additionally, this precision contributes to the sustainability of projects.

3. Integration with technologies

The Digital Twin also facilitates integration with other emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning. 

Algorithms can be employed to analyze the data collected and identify patterns or anomalies that would be difficult to detect manually.

This combination of Digital Twin with AI opens doors to innovations such as the automation of management processes and quality control.

Furthermore, the use of drones to capture images and data from the construction site can be integrated into the digital twin and provide an even more detailed view of the project's progress.

Another interesting integration involves Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), and Mixed Reality (MR) along with BIM and the Digital Twin. According to Deloitte, they transform into an “Industrial Metaverse” that will generate nearly $120 billion by 2030.

- Read also: Artificial Intelligence in civil construction: importance and uses

4. Sustainability and environmental planning

By creating an accurate digital replica of the physical asset, the Digital Twin allows for forecasting and calculating energy, water, and material consumption, adjusting the project to be more efficient. 

Additionally, the Digital Gem facilitates ongoing monitoring of environmental impact during the asset's operation, such as: energy consumption, gas emissions, material waste, and even evaluating the durability of materials, extending the asset's lifespan.

These practices help meet environmental standards and improve sustainability certification.

Difference between BIM and Digital Twin 

BIM

The BIM focuses on creating digital 3D representations of all components of a construction project and is applied during the planning, design, and construction phases. It allows for cost calculations, creation of construction schedules, and optimization of the process prior to the physical execution of the project. 

By integrating BIM with our Construct IN tool, it is used in the project management phases, enabling engineers to easily access what was designed and what is actually being built in just a few clicks. 

However, BIM does not operate during the building's operation or in preventive maintenance. In this methodology, information does not automatically update based on the real state of the physical asset. 

- Read also: Dimensions of BIM: get to know 3D, 4D, 5D, 6D, and 7D!

Digital Twin (Digital Gem)

The Digital Twin creates a digital replica of a physical asset in real time, allowing for monitoring, scenario simulation, and forecasts throughout the entire life cycle of the asset, from construction to operation and maintenance. 

It is updated with real-time information from IoT sensors and other sources.

How does the Digital Twin work in practice?

The application of the Digital Twin in construction projects begins with the integration of data from various sources.

This includes detailed 3D models (typically from BIM platforms), historical project data, information from installed sensors on the construction site, and even climatic data.

This data is processed and stored in a centralized management platform, where the digital replica is constantly updated to reflect the reality of the physical asset.

The digital model is then used to simulate the performance of the asset in different scenarios— from the impact of environmental conditions to behavior under specific structural loads.

For example, in a large building, sensors can monitor the shifts of beams and columns, providing real-time data that is reflected in the digital twin. 

If any parameter deviates from the expected, engineers are alerted to investigate potential structural failures or issues in the construction process.

How to implement the Digital Twin in your projects?

Using a digital gem may seem complex at first glance, but following these steps can help you:

1. Define the project scope

What will be the goal of the Digital Twin in your project? Will it be used for real-time monitoring, performance simulations, or predictive maintenance?

2. Select the tools

The choice of Digital Twin software and hardware is crucial. 

Research and select solutions that offer integration with sensors, drones, and other devices that collect data from the construction site. 

- Read also: ERP for construction companies: main benefits and when to hire

3. Install sensors and IoT devices

The sensors and IoT devices are the foundation of the Digital Twin. 

They capture data from the physical environment, such as temperature, humidity, energy use, and even the state of materials. 

These sensors should be strategically installed throughout the site and integrated in real-time with the digital platform. 

4. Train the team

Provide training so everyone knows how to use the digital model, interpret the data, and make decisions based on the information provided by the platform.

5. Start with a pilot project 

To ease adaptation, consider implementing the Digital Twin in a pilot project or in a specific area of the construction site.

This will allow you to test the technology, identify challenges, and adjust the process before expanding it to larger projects.

Want to take the first step towards having a Digital Gem?

The Construct IN is the ideal tool. Our project management platform centralizes all information from your projects, eliminating the confusion of photos scattered across WhatsApp, emails, and drives. 

With 360° images, you will have a complete view of your construction site. The photos are automatically organized by date and location on the floor plan, making management much simpler. Not to mention the ease of creating reports, accessing dashboards, and much more!

Schedule a free demonstration right now!