Encompassing measurements, advanced analysis and BIM for Digital Twinning of steel structures

Abstract

With advanced analysis techniques, such as FE-analysis and computational modeling, engineers gain deeper insights of the behavior of steel structures. On the other hand, established technologies, such as sensors, cameras, or laser scanners, offer new ways to measure and monitor the behavior of structural systems with unprecedented accuracy and ease of data use. By deploying these devices strategically, engineers can capture critical data points providing understanding of structural behavior, condition and performance. Moreover, Building Information Modelling methods and their evolutionary transition to twins provide collaborative arenas for the integration of virtual representations together with physical and characteristics of a structure. These representations facilitate visualization, coordination, and communication throughout the construction lifecycle. Encompassing advanced analysis, measurements, and BIM represents the core concept of a multilayered digital twin presented in this paper. This paper presents a discussion on this concept through the lens of steel structures design using advanced analysis, data integration and interoperability. Some developments related to educational steel structures twins are also described.

Authors acknowledge the funding of research projects based on Digital Twins for the Built Environments. Respectively, DI-2021, as part of the Industrial PhD program on Doubly Curved Digital Twins and “Ashvin- Assistants for Healthy, Safe, and Productive Virtual Construction Design, Operation & Maintenance using a Digital Twin” as an H2020 project under agreement 958161 that provides access to two demonstrators depicted in the paper.

Postprint (published version)