BimScaler Blog – Although they’re often talked about together, BIM and digital twins are two different but related things.
But together, these technologies help us work smarter, make better decisions, and explore new possibilities at every stage of a building’s life.
BIM is all about creating and managing digital versions of the physical and functional features of buildings. It makes sure that all the data is integrated throughout the building’s lifecycle.
Digital twins take it a step further by creating real-time, dynamic digital replicas of physical assets.
Let’s look at how BIM and digital twins fundamentally transformed the architecture, engineering, construction, and facility management (AEC-FM) industry by providing enhanced visualisation, coordination, and management capabilities.
How BIM and Digital Twins are Transforming the Industry
Building Information Modelling (BIM) is a great way to create and manage digital versions of buildings and the things inside them.
This method makes sure all the data is joined up throughout a building’s life, which really improves the results of the project.
Qiuchen Lu et al. say in “From BIM towards Digital Twin: Strategy and Future Development for Smart Asset Management” you can use BIM with IoT devices to collect and monitor data in real time, which is really useful for managing complex projects and improving operational efficiency.
Digital twins take what BIM can do and go a step further, creating dynamic, real-time digital replicas of physical assets.
These replicas let you keep an eye on things, run simulations and make improvements in real time. That means you can predict when something might need fixing and avoid downtime.
For example, Calin Boje and colleagues point out in “A framework using BIM and digital twins in facilitating LCSA for buildings” the huge potential of digital twin technology to bridge the gap between design estimates and actual operational performance, which is crucial for sustainable building management.
We can see the impact of these technologies in Australia on major infrastructure projects like the Sydney Metro and the Western Sydney Airport.
These projects use BIM and digital twins to make construction processes and operational efficiency better, showing how these technologies can improve project results.
BIM vs. Digital Twins: Key Differences and Synergies
BIM and digital twins are two different things, but they’re related. They serve different purposes and offer different benefits.
BIM gives you a model of the building that shows what it’s going to look like and how it’s going to work when it’s being designed and built.
This model is a key part of planning and coordination, giving stakeholders a complete overview of the project’s details and requirements.
Lu et al. say that BIM’s main job is to help with decision-making, monitoring and communication throughout the construction process.
On the other hand, digital twins give you a live, up-to-date view that goes all the way through to the building’s operational phase.
Digital twins bring together data from different sources, including sensors and IoT devices, to create a constantly updated digital version of the physical asset.
This dynamic model lets you monitor, simulate and optimise building performance in real time, so you can take proactive maintenance and efficient management for granted.
Boje et al. say the best thing about combining BIM and digital twins is the constant flow of data from the BIM model to the digital twin.
This makes it easier to manage the whole lifecycle of a project and make better decisions.
Applications of BIM and Digital Twins in Various Industries
Building Information Modelling (BIM) and Digital Twins (DT) are making waves in the Architecture, Engineering, Construction, and Facility Management (AEC-FM) industries.
But they’re not just for AEC-FM – they can be used in lots of other industries too, and they bring lots of benefits.
Min Deng, Carol C. Menassa, and Vineet R. Kamat in their systematic review titled “From BIM to Digital Twins: A Systematic Review of the Evolution of Intelligent Building Representations in the AEC-FM Industry,” shows how these technologies can be used in lots of different ways and how they can transform various fields.
Construction and Facility Management
In construction and facility management, BIM and DT are now essential tools.
BIM lets you create detailed digital models of buildings, which makes planning, design and construction a lot easier.
Bringing DT into the mix takes these capabilities to the next level.
It gives you real-time data and analytics on how the building is performing, so you can keep on top of maintenance and manage the facility more efficiently.
This combo brings down costs, boosts efficiency, and improves asset management throughout the building’s lifecycle.
As a starting point, you might want to read “Digital Twins Real Estate Offers a Virtual Edge to Attract More Customers.”
Healthcare
Healthcare facilities really benefit from using BIM and DT. These technologies let you plan and design complex hospital infrastructures with pinpoint accuracy, making sure that all systems are integrated seamlessly.
Once everything’s up and running, DTs let you keep an eye on key systems like HVAC and medical equipment in real time. That way, you can make sure everything’s working as it should and spot any issues straight away.
This means better care for patients, lower running costs and a safer environment for staff and patients.
Manufacturing
In manufacturing, DTs are used to create digital replicas of production facilities and machinery.
These digital models are hooked up to IoT devices and sensors, so you can monitor and control manufacturing processes in real time.
DTs help manufacturers to make their production workflows more efficient, predict when maintenance is needed and cut down on downtime.
This means you get more done, spend less on upkeep, and end up with a better product.
Transportation and Infrastructure
The transportation and infrastructure sectors use BIM and DT for designing, building and managing roads, bridges and other important infrastructure projects.
BIM gives us detailed 3D models and simulations that help us plan and execute projects more effectively.
DTs, on the other hand, keep an eye on things 24/7 and crunch the numbers, so we can make sure our infrastructure assets are in good shape and working properly.
This integration makes transportation networks more durable and safe, which helps with urban planning and resource management.
Energy and Utilities
We’re seeing a growing use of BIM and DT technologies in the energy and utilities industries.
BIM makes it easier to design and build energy-efficient buildings and infrastructure, while DTs let you monitor and manage energy systems in real time.
For example, in power plants and renewable energy installations, DTs help us understand how well the equipment is working and how much energy we’re producing.
This allows us to make sure everything is running as it should and to avoid wasting energy.
This means big savings on costs and helps make the switch to sustainable energy solutions.
Smart Cities
The concept of smart cities relies heavily on the integration of BIM and DT. These technologies enable the creation of detailed digital representations of urban environments, encompassing buildings, infrastructure, and public services.
DTs provide real-time data on various aspects of city management, such as traffic flow, energy consumption, and waste management.
This holistic approach supports efficient urban planning, enhances the quality of life for residents, and promotes sustainable development.
To get more details, you can read “From Pixels to Planet: Digital Twins and Sustainability for Greener Projects.”
Future Trends and Innovations
It looks like the future of BIM and digital twins in Australia is going to be bright, with new developments in AI and machine learning leading to more innovations.
We can also expect these technologies to work more closely with augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR), which will make it easier to visualise and train.
Boje et al. say that if we adopt open data standards and make it easier for different software platforms to work together, more people will use these technologies, which will make project management more efficient and collaborative.
On top of that, the focus on sustainability and smart cities will lead to more use of digital twins for urban planning and management.
This means many cities will be more efficient and resilient, as digital twins provide real-time data for better decision-making and resource management.
The comprehensive framework put forward by Lu et al. highlights the value of combining AI and machine learning with digital twins to boost asset management and operational efficiency.
How to Make BIM and Digital Twins Work for You?
As well as the benefits we’ve already talked about, there are also some challenges we need to flag up.
The technicalities of putting it into practice, the need for specific know-how, and the regular upkeep can be pretty daunting.
That’s why we think you’ll want to consider BIM Scaler as a BIM management support system.
BIM Scaler is an Australian company that provides customised BIM and digital twin solutions for businesses in the AEC industry.
We can help you with everything from CAD and BIM management to putting together a full implementation strategy.
And we’ll make sure your company gets the most out of these technologies.
You can check out what we did with K2LD Architects. We put in place a solid CAD and BIM management system that made workflows more efficient, improved collaboration, and got projects done faster.
We’d love to tell you more about how BIM Scaler can help you with your construction projects.
So, kindly visit and read our CAD & BIM Management page.
Or just drop us a line today to arrange a lunch meeting. Yes, absolutely! We’d love to show you what we can do for you.
In Closing
The combination of Building Information Modeling (BIM) and digital twins is transforming industries, increasing efficiency, reducing costs, and improving how we manage assets.
As they become more integrated, we can look forward to further advances, especially in Australia’s growing infrastructure.
With the right support, like BIM Scaler support, you can get through the challenges of adopting new technology and stay ahead of the curve in digital transformation.
But as BIM and digital twins keep developing, we’ll see a smarter, more efficient future.
