How to Make Intelligent Decisions With This

What are some applications of digital twin technology?

Digital twin technology and applications are increasing, as more assets and built environment scenarios are planned and designed in a digital engineering environment. This technology is widely applied throughout the operational and maintenance phases of engineering projects.

As we move through the life cycle phases, the applications and insights required from the digital twin change – what remains constant is the 3D spatial representation, this remains as the backbone of the digital twin.

The applications of digital twins are limitless.

Especially in the designing, engineering, and construction phases of the asset lifecycle where conformance, simulation, and clash detection assist in making better decisions. Better decisions in terms of constructability and most importantly safety.

“The 3D model created from reality capture solutions provides the ideal  spatial framework for digital twins of the built environment from which we can begin to anchor other static and real-time spatial and non-spatial information – start with the end in mind.”

Bruce Baker – CTO IntelliSpatial

What are some examples of the application of digital twin technology? 

• Scanning of buildings (internal and external) to create a point cloud and BIM model to assist with design and clash detection.
• Scanning and image capture along road and rail corridors to identify assets, determine defects, and assist with engineering design for maintenance and upgrades.
• Image scanning of buildings to create a photo realistic 3D mesh which can be used as an anchor to attach real-time IoT sensors and system that monitor the performance of the building (facilities management). The 3D model provides spatial context for sensor location and relevance. It can also be used for real-time mixed reality applications via smart devices such as wayfinding and inspection.
• UAV capture of a quarry, mine or stockpile to determine volumes and quantities based on different points in time.
• High resolution image scanning along tunnels (road, rail, water) to create a digital twin of the asset at different points in time form which change detection analytics can be used to track defects that need to me monitored and maintained.

The applications are endless…

The 3D representation is the base element in any digital twin as it provides a framework to understand the spatial context, from which we can attach and anchor other information. It also provides a point in time representation that we can use to compare subsequent 3D scans.