Digital twins give project managers the unique ability to monitor an entire worksite at a glance remotely. If they choose the right platform, they can build end-to-end solutions that offer even more granular benefits. What are the best tools for creating digital twins in construction?
The Value of Leveraging Digital Twins in Construction
Instead of spending the entire day walking around the construction site taking thousands of photos, professionals can use Internet of Things (IoT) sensors, laser scans or drone imagery. A digital twin can use this media to create a dynamic three-dimensional (3D) environment.
This technology makes tracking progress and documenting design changes more manageable and cost-effective. It also unifies information, streamlines verification and improves record accessibility, reducing miscommunications and contract disputes. That said, some platforms are better than others in terms of quality, accuracy and user-friendliness.
5 Best Tools for Creating Digital Twins in Construction
The best tools for creating digital twins should offer standard integrations, real-time tracking elements and a centralized data repository. With that criteria in mind, what are the best tools for creating digital twins in construction?
1. Cupix: 4D Digital Twin Platform
The platform from Cupix is the best digital twin tool on the market because it transforms static 3D models by layering time-based insights. By tracking spatial changes over time, it turns 360-degree video into a detailed four-dimensional (4D) model. Other than 360-degree models, you can utilize drone imagery, building information management models and laser scans.
This platform reduces reporting time, strengthens design compliance, increases client retention and streamlines workflows. On average, it improves accuracy by 90%, business impact by 85%, time efficiency by 70% and operational efficiency by 65%.
2. Microsoft: Azure Digital Twins
Microsoft’s digital twin solution uses input from IoT sensors to create 3D maps of construction environments. This live execution environment — a dynamic, real-time setting where changes are executed as soon as they are applied — catalogs change over time.
You can track these historicized changes with a live, two-dimensional graph. Since each of the interactive nodes represents an object, person or structure, you can see how they connect.
3. IBM: Maximo Application Suite
IBM’s Maximo Application Suite is an intelligent IoT system that offers a prebuilt integration library, artificial intelligence tools and key performance indicator tracking. Although it is not necessarily a digital twin, it aids in creating one.
4. Siemens: Simcenter 3D Software
The Simcenter 3D software from Siemens is a fully integrated computer-aided engineering (CAE) solution — an integrated environment where you can perform pre and postprocessing for CAE. Its smart virtual sensing and model-based testing improve upon static 3D models.
Thanks to physical measurements and a reduced order finite element model, Simcenter 3D software even supports the creation of virtual sensors. This solution has solvers for acoustics, motion, durability and more to help you forecast how your structure will perform under real-world circumstances. Integrating multiple physics domains in a single simulation modeling environment like this can improve insight generation.
5. Autodesk: Tandem for AEC
Autodesk Tandem was designed for architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) firms. This cloud-based software lets you create and maintain digital twins. You can visualize building systems and measure the performance impact of design decisions.
Deciding Between the Best Digital Twin Platforms
You should carefully review each entry’s benefits and standout features to determine the best tools for creating digital twins in construction. Rushing into decisions like these is unwise.
