The possibilities of using digital twin technology in the life cycle of buildings

Abstract

The article deals with Digital twin (DT) technology, as one of the latest technologies, which, unlike construction, is already widely used in other industries. The theoretical knowledge basis of this technology in construction industry lies in understanding the characteristics of the digital twin and in using knowledge about it from other areas of application. Based on acquired theoretical knowledge and an example from construction practice, the aim of the article is to demonstrate the development process of a digital twin and to indicate the benefits of using Asset Information Model (AIM) as an essential source of information for development of DT during the phases of the life cycle of buildings. The case study analyses the process of development of a digital twin of the heating system in family house, from the initial design of a heating project, through use of 3D scanning to create a virtual model and the integration of various tools of Internet of Things technology to the creation of its virtual model. Reflexion on the benefits of AIM in various phases of the life cycle of buildings, induced from the study of theoretical knowledge and based on the case study, is an essential part of the article.