3 major benefits of digital twins in construction

One form of digitization in construction is the realization of digital twins. Digital twins are virtual copies of physical objects. Such a copy shows in detail how both the digital model and the physical object function. This has many advantages.

Such a physical object can be a component of a machine or plant, but also a building management system, heat pump, or an entire building, tunnel or bridge. Digital twins are used both in the design phase and during the construction and maintenance of an object. Digital twins provide insight into how buildings will perform and how they can be optimized. For example, when it comes to energy efficiency, material and therefore cost savings, sustainability and the use of the building.

Adjusting in time

The object to be copied is first virtually placed in a 3D BIM model. During the design and work preparation phase, digital twins show where problems may arise so that adjustments can be made in time. They can also help with the efficient use of products and materials. This saves material and reduces waste. Special software makes structural calculations, for example, and detects expected clashes. Design faults are thus detected in time and are then easily adjusted.

Simulations of the digital twin can help improve the sustainability of buildings. It is easy to determine the effects of alternative materials and methods and make choices accordingly.

Taking stock of risks

A digital twin can also be used to simulate the use of the physical building before it is actually built. In this way, usage risks can be determined, for example. If the digital model reveals that emergency escape routes are not logical or practical, this can easily be adjusted during the design phase. If this is not discovered until the building has already been completed and the signage has been put up, it takes much longer to make changes.

Preventive maintenance

After construction, digital twins can still be used. For example, when it comes to the maintenance of installations and systems in buildings. Using a digital twin, problems can be detected before they actually occur. Timely, preventive maintenance prevents an installation or system from failing, with all its consequences. It also extends the service life in many cases.

The beauty of a digital twin is that the model grows with the physical object. This is done using smart sensors and software in the physical object. These constantly collect real-time data about the object. The software then ensures that the digital twin is always up to date.

Digital twins at the BouwBeurs

Visit BouwBeurs 2025 to learn about digital twins. Piet Fiege of Geberit will give the presentation "Accelerating new construction and renovation by using BIM and a digital twin" on Thursday, Feb. 6, at 11 a.m.