The following article is excerpted from “The Virtual Twin Experience for Smart And More Sustainable Construction” a whitepaper developed by Dassault Systèmes. To read more about virtual twin in construction industry, download the white paper here.

By leveraging the virtual world to extend and improve the real world, the Virtual Twin Experience provides capabilities for construction companies to model, collaborate and optimize processes and operations so that they can perform flawlessly. Here are eight ways virtual twins can lead to more sustainable construction.

1. Building Information Modeling (BIM)

Create a detailed 3D model of your project in the virtual world which is accessible on the cloud to all key stakeholders for easy collaboration from the start.

• Single source of information; no more confusion from having different versions of the BIM
• Early collaboration with stakeholders means quicker decision making
• Improve productivity while reducing waste, risk and cost

2. Modular Construction: 5D Simulation

As 3D printing becomes more widely used in construction, you can design and customize complex parts for 3D printing in the virtual environment.

• Simplify the process of designing 3D-printed parts through the virtual environment
• Save time and money compared to conventional construction methods
• Less material waste produced by 3D printing custom parts

3. Autonomous Construction

Plan automated processes and leverage simulation to ensure safe motion for robots and automated guided vehicles as well as optimize productivity.

• Fully automate activities such as welding, cutting, material handling, packing and dispensing
• Repetitive tasks can be completed more efficiently and with greater precision and quality
• Eliminate human error and consistency; free up human labor for more important tasks

4. Lean Work Management

Plan, execute and manage site operations digitally, using lean principles to maximize utilization and operational efficiency.

• Safety checklists and task signoffs to eliminate duplication of effort
• Improve operational visibility with real-time notifications between site workers and managers
• Digitize lean practices for teams with a modern, customizable and interactive touchscreen-enabled solution to capture, monitor and track operational meeting

5. Discrete event simulation for resource optimization

Decision-makers can leverage 3D simulations of multiple scenarios to evaluate construction execution possibilities with optimized sequences on scheduling data and choose the optimal plan.

• Optimize schedule and reduce risk with simulation
• Improve asset utilization
• Improve space planning

6. Virtualization and Augmented Reality

With information supplied by real-world processes, visualize ongoing operations in the virtual world to continuously improve efficiency and workplace safety.

• Superimpose BIM models onto real-world images and accurately measure physical dimensions
• Quickly spot overlaps in piping and wiring to prevent any rework and solve issues remotely
• Easily access manuals and training documents to improve workplace safety

7. IIoT and Execution Monitoring

Leverage IIoT to collect data from all devices at the worksite for advanced monitoring; analyze and visualize this data to ensure smooth execution.

• Measure worksite conditions and detect leaks from assets such as HVAC systems
• Improve site activities across planning, material management, inventory management, safety management, quality management and task management
• Increase asset uptime, grow new revenue streams and enhance customer service

8. Big Data, AI and Predictive Analytics

Compile a high volume of varied data from multiple sources and leverage AI and machine learning systems to make quick, accurate and informed decisions at the business level.

• Make accurate predictions on everything from asset performance to asset maintenance
• Leverage the analyzed data to support decision-making at the operational level
• Create safer and more productive worksites based on data intelligence

Excerpted from The Virtual Twin Experience for Smart and More Sustainable Construction, a Dassault Systèmes whitepaper. Download to learn more.

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Dassault Systèmes Construction, Cities & Territories Industry