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By: Bhavinbhai G. Lakhani.
Project Controls Specialist Lead, DACK Consulting Solutions Inc., NY 10606, New York, USA. Master of Science in Environmental Technology & Sustainability and Bachelor of Civil Engineering.
Abstract
The paper discusses how Digital Twin-enabled Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) restyles civil infrastructure by finding damage in real time, decreasing costs, and increasing safety levels. As opposed to the traditional inspection methods, Digital Twins apply virtual models and sensors to observe structures, like bridges, dams, and buildings immediately, which reduces the repair costs by 30–50% and extends the project’s lifespan by 20–30%. This research studies four real-world projects, namely, the Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge (USA, 2017), the Gordie Howe International Bridge (USA/Canada, 2024), the Site C Dam (Canada, 2023), and the One Penn 1 Building (USA, 2022), in a detailed manner. These projects help us know how small fixes controls errors from becoming big, how workers can inspect the project using their phones, instead of more physical checkups and no more higher climbing. Less inspection leads to less traffic and less pollution. We know how even simple training can help workers adapt to new technologies. Governments are seeing long-term saving capabilities and soon, newer projects will use Digital Twins technology more often, to stay stronger and safer, at the same time. Moreover, advancements, like AI and IoT, help to enhance the accuracy levels and scalability of Digital Twins. However, challenges, such as high setup costs, data integration problems, and regulatory issues, emerge and are a problem in the global implementation of digital twin technology. So, this study also assesses cost savings, time efficiency, and lifespan gains using data analysis and graphs and then suggests effective solutions, like cloud systems and worker training, to overcome obstacles for broader industry implementation.
Keywords: Digital twin, structural health monitoring, civil infrastructure, project, bridge
Citation:
Refrences:
- American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE). Digital twins in bridge monitoring: A state-of-the-art review. J Bridge Eng. 2020;25(4):04020012.
- Canadian Dam Association. Site C Dam structural health monitoring annual report 2023. Ottawa: CDA; 2023.
- Y. Lin International. Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge SHM implementation report. San Francisco: T.Y. Lin International; 2018.
- Gordie Howe International Bridge digital twin deployment summary. Los Angeles: AECOM; 2024.
- Vornado Realty Trust. One Penn 1 renovation and SHM integration report. New York: Vornado Realty; 2022.
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- New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT). Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge maintenance and cost analysis report 2019. Albany: NYSDOT; 2019.
- BC Hydro. Site C Clean Energy Project: Digital twin SHM performance review 2023. Vancouver: BC Hydro; 2023.