A Building Information Modeling (BIM) model is a complete digital representation of a construction project, including not only its physical geometry but also detailed information such as materials, specifications, costs, schedules, or performance attributes. Traditionally, three different BIM models are developed to align with the various stages of the construction process.
BIM Design Model focuses on project documentation, offering 3D visualization, facilitating interdisciplinary coordination, and ensuring the consistency of project information. BIM Construction Model monitors the evolving progress of the works, accommodating possible alterations during the construction phase. In addition to the above functions, it also integrates construction planning, change management, quantity surveying and cost management. BIM As-Built Model which must describe what has been built, detailing both the physical construction and its associated equipment and systems.
Once the building is completed, the as-built documentation becomes a contractual necessity, requiring the delivery of updated plans that accurately reflect the actual construction. This marks the crucial moment of the As-Built model handover, an event whose significance transcends this initial purpose.
At this point the operational phase begins, which marks the transformation of the building into a fully functional space that requires occupancy, meticulous maintenance and efficient management to ably serve the diverse needs of its occupants with maximum effectiveness and efficiency.
To ensure the perfect operation of the building, the adoption of a digital twin (DT) emerges as a highly favorable solution in this context. A digital twin is a virtual representation of the physical building that uses real-world data to simulate, predict, and optimize its behavior.
The DT is a dynamic model, which includes the integration of real-time data streams. This data can include information about temperature, humidity, energy consumption, occupancy, equipment status, and more. The real-time data enriches the static BIM model with live insights.
By installing sensors in the building, we enhance the digital twin’s database, enabling data analysis and the creation of a seamless monitoring system that spans the entire operational life cycle. This approach not only supports ongoing operations and maintenance, but also serves as a basis for strategic decision-making, adopting a holistic perspective that improves building performance and contributes to the reduction of the building’s environmental impact.
From a life cycle perspective the use of a DT is critical in the governance and management of building operations. The DT plays a key role in monitoring asset performance, forecasting maintenance needs, optimizing energy consumption and simulating scenarios for possible future modifications or renovations. Its real-time information enables stakeholders to manage assets proactively, promoting sustainability, efficiency and resilience of the built environment.
In essence, the as-built BIM model provides the foundation, while the Digital Twin adds the dynamic, real-time capabilities necessary for monitoring and managing the asset over its entire life cycle. This combination improves sustainability, efficiency, and resilience of the built environment and is particularly valuable for complex constructions where continuous monitoring and optimization are essential.