AdvancedTopic 112 of 112Civil & Structural
Digital twins for infrastructure
Sensor-fed models predict deterioration of bridges and networks.
In depth
A digital twin combines BIM, sensor data and analytics to mirror an asset's condition and predict deterioration, optimise maintenance and test scenarios. Applied to bridges, tunnels, dams and networks. Needs data integration, standards, and reliable models.
Key points
- Real-time sensing
- Predictive maintenance
- Scenario simulation
ExampleA rail operator uses a tunnel's digital twin to schedule inspections.
What is Digital twins for infrastructure?
Sensor-fed models predict deterioration of bridges and networks.
Why is it important to understand digital twins for infrastructure?
Digital twins link a model with sensor data, so engineers can predict the condition of an asset and plan maintenance before problems grow.
What is a digital twin?
A digital model of an asset that is updated with real measured data, so it reflects the current state of the physical system.
What makes a digital twin useful?
It can test scenarios, forecast deterioration and support decisions about maintenance and investment without interrupting the real asset.
How is Digital twins for infrastructure used in practice?
Typical applications include predicting when a bridge bearing will need replacement using live sensor data, simulating the effect of a storm on a water network before it happens and planning inspection and repair on a road network using condition models.
What should I learn before Digital twins for infrastructure?
Study "Performance-based earthquake engineering" first (topic 111 of 112 in Civil & Structural). It covers the groundwork this topic builds on.
What are the key points of Digital twins for infrastructure?
Real-time sensing. Predictive maintenance. Scenario simulation.
Can you give an example of Digital twins for infrastructure?
A rail operator uses a tunnel's digital twin to schedule inspections.
What comes after Digital twins for infrastructure?
This is the final topic in Civil & Structural.
How difficult is Digital twins for infrastructure?
It is classed as Advanced in Civil & Structural (topic 112 of 112). It is an advanced topic. It assumes you are comfortable with the intermediate topics in Civil & Structural.