Digital Twins for Built Environment. A Review on Key Enablers

1. Introduction

The impact of the built environment, which includes infrastructure, buildings, and urban spaces, on our daily lives cannot be overstated. It is responsible for nearly 40% of global energy consumption and carbon dioxide emissions, making it a crucial area for sustainability efforts (UN Environment, 2018) [1]. In order to make necessary improvements in sustainability, efficiency, and occupant comfort, building owners, facility managers, and city planners require precise and comprehensive information about the performance of the built environment. To obtain this information, Digital Twin technology can be utilized in order to create a virtual replica of a physical system allowing for real-time monitoring, analysis, and optimization.

The continuous evolution of technology has played a vital role in providing quick access to vast amounts of information, bringing about considerable advancements in several fields, particularly digital technology. [2] With the increasing development of virtual modeling and data collection technology [3], the Digital Twin (DT) concept has become increasingly feasible as it involves the creation of a digital model of the physical environment that adapts to real-time changes and provides optimal outcomes quickly [4].

Digital twin (DT) platforms have the capability to improve and advance themselves by utilizing data gathered from installed sensors that update and simulate information from the environment [5]. In the first phase, virtual models of the physical environment are used to create DT platforms, and the gathered physical data is integrated to establish a unified connection with the physical environment, enabling real-time monitoring [4]. Therefore, DT platforms manage and supervise the physical conditions of the environment through their corresponding DT.

In addition, DT platforms offer features that can increase efficiency, prolong lifespan, and lower operational expenses of the targeted physical environment through proactive and predictive monitoring and maintenance tools [5]. Furthermore, the latest mapping technologies utilizing data gathered from the physical environment and remote sensing from Earth Observation (EO) satellites are integrated into the built environment tools within DT platforms [6]. While still in their early phases, DT platforms have already demonstrated numerous capabilities in various scientific domains.

A review of published articles on DT platforms has revealed a significant gap in the implementation of DT platforms in the construction sector. Although DT platform applications have been explored in multiple sectors, including construction, the industry has not fully adopted the DT paradigm. This can be attributed to the various stakeholders involved. The goal of this article is to conduct a thematic analysis to provide an up-to-date review of DT platform applications. It will examine the extent of DT implementation in the AECO sector, define the principal concepts and significant enablers, and identify recommendations from other industrial sectors.

2. Key definitions

The concept of "twinning" was initially introduced in the aerospace industry during the NASA Apollo project of 1960 [7]. The project required the spacecraft to communicate with its Earth-bound twin, as if it were on a space mission [8]. Later, Dr. Michael Grieves coined the term "digital twin" related to Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) [9].

PLM is an all-encompassing strategy for managing every aspect of a product, and it entails the use of several tools, technologies, and procedures to streamline product development and management [10]. In this context, Kritzinger et al. [11] describe DT as a digital information system that can be employed to simulate and optimize various stages of a product's lifecycle. The various definitions and applications of DT have characterized this idea as a digital model connected to a physical entity using smart devices and a stable real-time communication network.

Different authors have provided diverse definitions to explain the meaning and objectives of DT technologies. Dr. Michael Grieves defined DT as an information model that reflects the product lifecycle management [12]. Similarly, other authors have also given their own descriptions of DT. For instance, Rosen et al. [13] defined DT as a combination of physical and virtual spaces that can mirror each other to evaluate physical life cycle operations. Bushert and Rosen [7] asserted that DT includes all valid physical and functional data of a system, with their definition focusing on data exchange and algorithms controlling physical behavior and virtual models. However, this definition only concentrates on DT data and disregards its components and purpose. Grieves and Vickers [14], on the other hand, presented DT as a set of virtual information structures in product life cycle management, with the ability to represent data linked to a possible or actual physical product.

Regarding the engineering design of the physical environment, the objective of DT is to achieve the final product quality with digital design while reducing the gaps between design and implementation [14].

According to Lui et al. [15], a digital twin is a model of a system that dynamically adapts to changes in the physical environment by using collected data and information to predict future changes. A DT utilizes a range of technologies, tools, and internet systems to gather real-time data from the physical environment, which is then used for simulation and virtual modeling. As explained by Madani et al. [16], a DT serves as a virtual representation of the performance, maintenance, and health of a physical environment, continuously updated throughout the system's life cycle. Lui et al. [15] further suggested that a DT can operate over time to enhance its performance by utilizing the information received from the physical environment.

The emergence of digital twin (DT) platforms has opened up new avenues for more precise and accessible functions and services in various fields [17]. The domain of DT platforms can be defined by the interaction principles between the physical and virtual worlds that enable data analysis and system monitoring [4]. This interaction between the physical environment and virtual modeling is greatly facilitated by communication platforms that are enhanced using real-time data and dataset updates. In this context, the Internet of Things (IoT) can be mentioned as a highly dependable communication system that operates on sensors, cloud computing, and data analysis. Therefore, the continuous flow of data and information transferred between the physical and virtual environments is a crucial element of DTs, enabling the platform environment's life cycle [18].

The DT platform is capable of predicting the future of the physical environment by continuously adjusting to operational changes through online data collection and information. Therefore, the DT platform consists of integrating systems from data sources and datasets, supported or formed by embedded sensors, wireless sensor networks, and digitized life cycle systems, and integration with cloud services and data providers [19].

Advancements in sensor design and fabrication make it easy to synchronize the DT platform with collecting information from the physical environment. These sensors immediately receive information and enable the virtual model's continuous ability. Based on this, the DT paradigm can be divided into three parts: a) physical product, b) virtual product, and c) communication infrastructure and data collection systems [20]. As such, the critical aspect of the DT is the connection between physical and virtual product environments, which involves various approaches and sub-components at each stage.

Figure 1. Main Digital Twin components.

Figure 1. Main Digital Twin components.

3. Primary components and system architecture

The development and administration of a virtual model for Built Environment Management require the integration of numerous linked elements that form a Digital Twin platform.

The architecture of a typical Digital Twin system for Built Environment Management comprises several key components.

Digital Twin Model: is the core component of the system, consisting of mathematical models that simulate the physical behavior of the real-world system. These models can be based on first principles, empirical data, or a combination of both, and can represent various aspects of the built environment, such as energy consumption, indoor air quality, and occupant behavior [20] which can be updated in real-time based on data collected from various sensors and IoT devices.

Data Acquisition and Integration: is another critical component of the Digital Twin system, responsible for collecting data from sensors, IoT devices, and Building Management Systems (BMS). This data is then processed and integrated into the Digital Twin Model to provide a more accurate representation of the real-world system.

Data Analytics and Machine Learning techniques: are used to analyze the data and extract valuable insights, such as energy consumption patterns, equipment performance, and occupant behavior [21]. This component also includes data pre-processing and filtering algorithms to ensure that the data is accurate and reliable.

The Data Analytics and Machine Learning component processes the data collected by the Data Acquisition and Integration component. This element employs various data analytics and machine learning techniques to extract meaningful insights from data. These insights can be used to optimize the performance of the physical system, predict maintenance requirements, and identify anomalies or faults.

Visualization and User Interface: provide a user-friendly interface for interacting with the Digital Twin system. This component enables users to view and analyze the data collected from the real-world system and make informed decisions regarding optimization and maintenance. The interface can be in the form of a web application, dashboard, or augmented reality (AR) visualization [22].

Communication and Interoperability: enable the Digital Twin system to communicate with external systems and platforms, such as BIM (Building Information Modeling) software, GIS (Geographic Information System), and energy management systems. This component facilitates data exchange and interoperability, allowing for more comprehensive and accurate analysis and optimization [21].

A representation of the Digital Twin framework for building asset portfolio is proposed and displayed in Figure 2 which demonstrates main components and data aggregation from multiple sources.

4. Digital Twin in the AECO industry

In the early stages, the development of digital platforms is focused on the construction and urban industry. Researchers have highlighted the benefits of implementing DT technology, which includes monitoring facility performance and operation, as well as cost analysis and reliable scenarios for maintenance. Although significant investment is required for launching and developing digital platforms, it can provide a long-term return on investment [16].

Digital platforms offer several benefits, such as effective data management, anomaly detection in maintenance and control stages, and management of different departments. Parrott et al [23] reported that digital platforms increase quality, reduce warranty, service, and operational costs, introduce new digital products, and create opportunities for capital growth.

The practical advantages of digital platforms in the construction and urban development sector include real-time monitoring of construction progress, updated use of maps and models, appropriate planning for resource support, monitoring safety departments and structure quality, equipment optimization monitoring, supervision, management, and operation of facilities, improved decision-making, and sustainable development of buildings and cities [24].

The construction industry has not fully utilized the advantages of digital platforms yet, but there is hope that it will soon take full advantage of the potential of DT by implementing it as much as possible in the construction industry. Additionally, the growing trend of intelligent building construction and big data can significantly impact the mandatory growth of DT platforms in this industry. Digital platforms have made many advances in other industries, which can show significant benefits. However, compared to other industries, the growth of digital platforms in the construction sector has not been very impressive due to different factors [25].

To advance the development of digital platforms as much as possible, it is crucial to collect and use massive data received by various sources. However, another limiting factor that can affect the construction sector is the lack of trust due to the fear of losing jobs and reducing work. Using online platforms can be one solution to this issue. The slow growth and development of digital platforms in the construction industry can also be attributed to the nature of the industry, where each project differs from another. The use of different standards in the development of digital platforms can effectively help the growth and development of DT technologies. Therefore, increasing the development of standardization in this sector can significantly help producing valuable digital products.

However, it should be noted that this standardization should be applied to various projects. According to a study by Siemens, another limitation of adopting digital platforms in the construction industry is the lack of defined budgets for developing these platforms in "digital" planning and simulation to reduce costs in the long term [26].

According to several studies conducted in the United States, 89% of IoT platforms will contain some form of digital twin capacity by 2025 [27].

As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, 31% of companies are using digital twin systems to improve employee safety, such as using remote asset monitoring systems to reduce the need for in-person monitoring [28].

According to a report by Markets and Markets [29], the global value of the digital twin market was estimated at $3.1 billion in 2020 and is expected to reach $48 billion by 2026.

Below are the key elements of a DT with reference to build assets and the product lifecycle management (PLM) in design, construction, delivery, operation, maintenance, renewal, and end-of-life stages.

Virtual representation: refers to a digital copy of the construction objects and processes that are being considered (as outlined in ISO 23387). This digital representation comprises a series of interconnected digital assets, including but not limited to building information models (BIM), computer-aided design (CAD) models, images, videos, point clouds, documents, and spreadsheets. These assets serve to capture the as-built construction objects. Additionally, virtual representation is supported by data that pertains to the construction objects and processes. This data includes information about products, systems, materials, elements, entities, processes, work performances, and more. All of this data works together to provide comprehensive and cohesive information about real-world entities and processes.

The utilization of digital resources and supportive data is crucial for building computational models that precisely depict and link the past, present, and future potential statuses of assets. Virtual representation transforms and progresses from the design stage to end-of-life or decommissioning stage. Redundant data and information are continuously updated, overwritten, or archived as appropriate.

The acquisition of real-time data during the construction and utilization stage of the asset offers valuable insights that can extract additional efficiencies. This data can be employed to enhance the entire comprehension of the asset or to plan out particular scenarios.

Entities and processes in the real world can be categorized into three levels including (I) construction objects such as products, systems, spaces, or components; (II) building or civil engineering assets such as bridges, industrial plants, or buildings; (III) and portfolios of assets such as social housing programs, highway networks, or offshore wind farms.

The physical environment and the production and support processes used in the design, construction, and operation of these entities are also considered. Real-world entities include a hospital room, an excavator, a pump, a building, an office block, a worker, an occupant, a neighbourhood, and a city; real-world processes include work planning or space planning etc.

As DTs are purpose-driven, considering these levels is essential in driving the development of the DT and helping DT developers define the system architecture and technical specifications to ensure that it meets the stakeholders' original requirements. Additionally, thinking about entities and processes at different levels can indicate the scale of the DT application and the timing of its application during the asset's lifecycle, such as during pre-design, design, or operation.

Synchronization is the connection between virtual representation and real-world entities which is critical and sets DTs apart from other digital models as it enables a loop between the virtual and physical worlds for management, forecasting, optimization, and simulations. The definition of synchronization is somewhat flexible and can involve one-way connections with sensors providing data on real-world entity performance or bidirectional connections with control commands to actuators or a system connected to actuators, and/or with human intervention. Matching real-world entities and processes with the virtual representation is essential, and synchronization helps achieve this. It also determines the design, development, distribution, and use of DTs, which need to be regularly updated.

The synchronization mechanism plays an additional role in connecting the DT to other DTs, making them part of a DT ecosystem, and other external data sources such as local weather, environmental, and economic data.

Frequency of physical-virtual synchronization: determines how often the virtual representation is updated to match the current state of connected entities and processes. The update can happen in real-time, daily, or at a predetermined interval, depending on the use case, resources available, real-world entity or process type, and real-time data collection technologies. Regular updates are necessary to prevent the virtual representation from becoming obsolete and limiting the usefulness of the digital twin. Without proper monitoring and maintenance of synchronization frequency, confidence in the DT's ability to meet requirements and provide benefits will decrease.

Fidelity pertains to the precision and accuracy of the virtual representation and the synchronization mechanisms used. It's also an indicator of data governance and information management framework that ensures accurate data collection, tracking, and maintenance for the model.

The level of fidelity varies based on the intended use of the DT. The degree of fidelity is driven by the granularity of the synchronized information. For instance, some applications may only require time-series data on a building's overall energy consumption, while others may need data on specific equipment, systems, and devices on each floor of the same building.

The DT can also be customized to receive various data types from different sources, such as video devices, laser scanners, accelerometers, and displacement sensors. Multi-fidelity is the term used when fidelity varies with the data stream.

Similar to frequency, if the data source is not accurately maintained, trust in the DT is affected. Therefore, project teams usually require a demonstration of the reliability of both the data generation process and the update cycles before adopting a DT. In the built environment industry, frequency and fidelity dictate the level of effort required to maintain the virtual representation up to date.

4.1. Enabling technologies use cases

4.1.1. IoT and lighting systems

Numerous studies have explored methods to reduce energy consumption in lighting technology and its control systems [30]. The incorporation of LED lights has been identified as one such approach, capable of reducing energy consumption by 10-25% [26]. Furthermore, the integration of sensor control technology can reduce lighting energy consumption by over 50%. Jontonen et al. [31] utilized passive infrared (PIR) sensors to intelligently track pedestrian movement and dynamically control lighting devices, resulting in a savings of over 60% compared to traditional street lighting systems. Optical sensors may also be implemented to optimize sensor installation location and adjust brightness, which can potentially reduce energy consumption by 45-61% [32].

A matrix mathematical model was developed by Gao et al. [33] through the use of an RBF (radial basis function) neural network. They further optimized the sensor distribution by utilizing genetic algorithms. Mayol et al. [34] proposed a distributed lighting control system that makes use of sensors to adjust lighting levels efficiently in response to ambient lighting. In addition, Wagiman et al. [35] suggested a new technique for optimizing optical sensors by using particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithms to minimize light and energy consumption. Sun et al. [36] integrated several technologies such as routers, databases, and servers to create a distributed multi-agent framework for multiple sensors. This integration enhances the ability to interact with the environment and supplement intelligent controls in lighting systems.

4.1.2. Computer vision

The technology of computer vision and the tools used for processing and analyzing images can be seen as an emulation of biological vision, and it includes various subsets, such as object detection, scene reconstruction, 3D pose estimation, video tracking, image recovery, and 3D scene modeling. These technologies are extensively employed in everyday life due to significant advancements in computer vision and smart city construction [37]. As a result, numerous sectors have made great progress in terms of efficiency, safety, and smartness, especially in the realm of remote computer vision. This progress is evident in the areas of facial recognition [38], smart locks [39] and entrance and exit control in office buildings [40].

In addition to its various applications, computer vision can also contribute to energy conservation in buildings. For instance, deep learning techniques have been employed by researchers to detect equipment and heat increase in office buildings [41] and forecast heating energy demand in residential buildings [42]. Moreover, computer vision has a great potential for intelligent lighting systems, as demonstrated in several studies.

Zawadzki et al. [43] suggest the use of a microprocessor controller for image analysis and remote control of light beam direction. Carrillo et al. [44] utilized a digital camera to improve the environment's lighting by adapting it to artificial light, providing a better effect on the buyers while also saving energy. Wu et al. [45] presented a method for adaptive adjustment of light brightness using quasi-real calculation of ambient brightness for high dynamic range (HDR) imaging.

Visual sensors with high dynamic range were investigated by Motamed et al. [46] to monitor lighting systems, while Liu et al. [44] used infrared image processing for intelligent control of library lighting devices. Finally, Shanmugam et al. [47] employed computer vision and integrated deep learning algorithms for video stream processing to investigate warehouse material transfer in their intelligent lighting control. Computer vision has played a crucial role in various aspects, such as ambient light calculation, lighting quality assessment, and intelligent control of lighting systems, resulting in significant energy savings.

4.1.2. Building Information Modelling (BIM)

The process of simulating physical models and updating data in multidisciplinary and multiscale domains can be accomplished through digital platforms [48]. These platforms utilize efficient models to display accurate world information in a virtual space.

In a study conducted by Pan et al. [49], a digital platform framework for advanced project management was built using BIM and IoT. Similarly, Zhao et al. [50] employed IoT and BIM technology to develop DT platforms for designing intelligent storage systems and managing goods safety. Additionally, digital twins have been utilized by researchers to monitor the management of smart urban infrastructures [51].

Digital twins have also proven useful in the field of damage detection in smart city infrastructures [52]. By identifying damages to the built environment, digital twins enable risk-based decisions and reduce environmental stress using smart management approaches [53,54]. The relationship between BIM and digital twin technology is closely intertwined, as BIM can provide technical support for digital platforms. Several researchers have explored the concept of BIM technology in digital platforms and presented case studies [54]. Combining BIM models and IoT has also been beneficial [55], as the models provided by BIM technology utilize different sensors for dynamic collection and integration of data and operations within the BIM environment [56].

BIM models contain real-time building information, enabling the ability to make quick decisions and respond to emergencies. Srini-vasan et al. [57] used BIM models to examine the combination of 3D heat transfer analysis results. Additionally, BIM models are utilized for other applications such as monitoring construction facilities [58], emergency evacuation of buildings [59], and developing prefabricated buildings [60].

4.1.3. Systems and data integration

Effective collaboration among stakeholders is crucial for the success of construction projects as it enables the use of new and updated data. Inaccurate or outdated information can hinder building maintenance and operation efforts, and thus timely and accurate data is imperative. Facility management (FM) provides a fitting example of the benefits of using building maintenance systems data, which can save up to 80% of efficient time compared to paper reports or Excel spreadsheets [61]. In contrast, traditional transmission methods can lead to lengthy maintenance services and processes [62].

In facility management, digital twin technology has garnered significant attention due to its potential to enhance asset performance, operational efficiency, and reduce maintenance costs. Numerous scientific research studies have supported the benefits of digital twin implementation in facility management, including:

Predictive maintenance: Digital twin technology enables facility managers to predict equipment failure, resulting in proactive maintenance scheduling. Digital twin technology can reduce maintenance costs by up to 40% by predicting maintenance needs and preventing unexpected equipment downtime.

Improved energy efficiency: Digital twins can monitor and optimize energy consumption in buildings, which can lead to a 20-30% reduction in energy usage and cost savings, as well as reduced carbon emissions, according to a study [63].

Enhanced occupant comfort: Digital twin technology can help facility managers improve occupant comfort by monitoring and adjusting environmental conditions such as temperature, lighting, and air quality. A study by [64] found that the use of digital twins in HVAC systems can improve thermal comfort by up to 20%.

Improved asset management: Digital twin technology can provide facility managers with real-time information on the status and performance of building assets, resulting in increased productivity, reduced costs, and improved asset utilization, according to a study by Azari et al. (2020) [65].

In building maintenance operations, BIM models can serve as a source and repository of information alongside other services. Due to their compatibility with various technologies and support for all stakeholders' activities, BIM models can offer robust solutions in a short amount of time during the building's lifespan [66].

Effective integration of these models into digital platforms can help maintain the system's achievements. Therefore, it is crucial to develop techniques that use BIM data combinations according to data specifications (COBie and IFC) to achieve these objectives [67,68].

4.1.4. GIS and BIM integration

The management of cities and districts is highly dependent on the use of GIS software layers [69]. BIM models can provide valuable data and layers that are essential for infrastructure design and construction processes. The integration of GIS software and BIM models is a fundamental requirement for software function integration, including coordinate systems, semantic standards, data formats, and other parameters.

To enhance the performance of models, several researchers have focused on maximizing their integration. Integrating GIS software and BIM models can save time and allow for more precise monitoring of construction and post-construction processes [70,71]. Numerous studies have demonstrated the successful utilization of GIS software and BIM model integration for developing and visualizing a range of functions [72].

The availability of updated information models is essential to retrieve information and obtain a comprehensive view of different stages of urban construction. Such information can assist urban planners in estimating and analyzing urban sustainability more scientifically and accurately. The support of GIS and BIM technologies is crucial in this regard, and their practical development is necessary to understand, recognize, develop, and improve urban laws on a large scale. The development of these technologies and integration of GIS and BIM have provided a more scientific and practical approach to urban planning [73]. Prior studies have shown how to extract information from BIM and 3D urban models to urban information models [74]

GIS and BIM have played a vital role in the proper management of urban information. The creation of the City Information Models (CIM) cadastre database is crucial for the development and expansion of urban information[74,75]. Integrating GIS and BIM technologies with urban cadastre management can help increase and expand the standardization of the BIM modeling process and unify the information data formats used to facilitate it [76,77].

A Digital Twin system architecture proposed by the authors aimed at combining BIM and GIS data with asset static and operational data for building management is shown in Figure 3.

The integration of GIS software and BIM model technology can benefit buildings in various fields, such as reducing energy consumption, optimizing the construction site, and improving architectural designs [78]. Research on using the integration of GIS software and BIM model technology is ongoing and can be applied in many sectors, such as water and hydropower protection projects [79,80], tunnels [81], and bridges [82]. With such broad applications, the integration of GIS software technologies and BIM models can be used as a digital twin tool to achieve digital transformation in large-scale projects (Table 1).

5. Digital Twins and Smart Cities

Advanced technologies are utilized for efficient and timely analysis and integration of crucial information systems in urban areas [90] to facilitate data-driven decision-making in various domains like environmental management, public safety, and city services [91]. Digital platforms have many potential applications in urban planning for immediate, medium-term and long-term improvement of people's quality of life. One such application is the use of a digital twin (DT) platform for water supply management in Carson, Nevada, that can increase water efficiency and prevent wastage [92].

Virtual Singapore is another notable project in this field that integrates 3D maps and urban models on one platform, providing detailed information on building materials, texture, and facility components. This platform is instrumental in enhancing decision-making in managing resources and responding to emergencies, enabling citizens, businesses, and research communities to test new ideas [93].

The city of Amaravati in India is another significant project in this area. A DT platform is being developed at a cost of 6.5 billion dollars, covering various facilities, such as metro networks, main roads, hospitals, schools, universities, and buildings [94,95]. Similarly, the Australian government has launched a project to create a DT platform near Melbourne that visualizes real-time data on public transport, building sectors, traffic analysis, and forecasting electricity and water consumption [96].

Moreover, digital platforms can be utilized for emergency response management during disasters [54,97]. For example, G. White et al. [98] state that river level data can be used to predict flooding, and warning citizens about possible flooding can help minimize the damages. Historical data of floods in smart cities can be used to prevent future floods in the long term. The extensive use of DT platforms can change people's perspectives on cities and living spaces, providing ample opportunities for urban designers, architects, engineers, builders, property owners, and citizens to analyze the city in various scenarios [99]. Thus, with the participation of all stakeholders, cities can become more democratic [100] (Table 2).

6. Other Industries DT Applications

The continuous progress of technology has paved the way for the integration of DT platforms in various industrial and commercial sectors. These platforms can offer numerous benefits to society, particularly in industrial settings. For instance, DT platforms can create a virtual replica of the actual industrial environment in real-time, allowing for better and more precise monitoring of the final products [111]. To further understand the viability of DT platforms in different industries and showcase their accomplishments, several industrial sectors with significant growth in DT platform development and design have been analyzed. This comparison can aid in assessing the potential application of DT platforms in different industries.

6.1. Aerospace

In the US Air Force Research Laboratory, the aerospace industry is utilizing digital platforms to create a precise flight model. This virtual model's data is combined with the data from the physical models to produce highly accurate predictions [112]. Tuegel et al. [116] suggest that using digital platforms can be helpful in predicting the structural life reengineering process of an aircraft. One of the top design systems and components manufacturers for aerospace and defense organizations, Test-Fuchs, has successfully implemented a dedicated digital twin approach for test equipment [113].

Seshadri and Krishnamurthy [114] propose using digital twin platforms for damage detection in aircraft structural health management. Another application of digital twin platforms in aerospace is the Airframe Digital Twin (ADT), which can assess and update the latest damage status and flight status in real-time [115]. Digital twin platforms are currently used in various stages of product services and maintenance in aviation and astronautics (Table 3).

6.2. Industry and Manufacturing

The automotive industry, which produces cars in various models and designs, requires advanced capabilities to ensure the quality of final products. In recent years, there has been significant growth in car design technology, with more cars moving towards automatic control systems. Lane monitoring systems, hands-free driving, and alarm sensors that detect objects in close proximity are some examples of automatic systems used in designing new cars [125].

DT digital platforms can play a critical role in the success of self-driving cars in the near future. The first step is to design a digital version of the car, which is then analyzed using data obtained from actual test drives in simulation models to determine how the car will perform before designing. The simulation uses data such as aerodynamic data, engine specifications, body design, and materials to be used. The use of digital technology in this process can help the automobile industry grow even further.

With the progress of the Internet of Things, cloud computing, and artificial intelligence, more manufacturing industries are expected to benefit from intelligent technologies for their production processes [126]. Roy et al. [127] have reviewed the evolution of the manufacturing industry from Industry 1.0 to Industry 4.0 after the industrial revolution, examining the different stages and discussing their integration. Digital platforms with real-time data management enable intelligent production in industries, leading to more opportunities for automated data collection and optimization.

DT platforms can improve supply chain efficiency, optimize energy consumption, and improve product assembly steps. They can also be used for monitoring and control in production stages and have other advantages, such as multi-objective optimization and machine simulation and monitoring [127] (Table 4).

6.3. Energy

In the present era, there is a noticeable rise in the number of newly constructed energy farms being established and operated to diminish air pollution and combat global warming.

The integration of DT technology in the energy sector has multiple advantages, which include enhanced efficiency, decreased expenses, and improved safety measures. One of the significant benefits of DT is its capability to simulate real-life situations, enabling energy firms to optimize their activities and minimize the likelihood of costly downtime.

Lu et al. (2020)[137] examined the use of DT technology in the maintenance of power plants. The study found that the deployment of a DT system in a power plant led to a reduction in unexpected downtime, increased safety measures, and improved efficiency. Furthermore, the DT system provided valuable insights into the plant's operation, enabling the maintenance teams to recognize potential issues before they arose.

According to a study conducted by Bortolini et al. (2021) [138], the use of digital technologies (DTs) can optimize energy systems and improve their efficiency, resulting in reduced energy consumption. DTs can monitor and manage renewable energy sources, such as wind turbines and solar panels, improving their performance and reducing maintenance costs.

To meet the growing demand for electricity, clean energy farms, including wind and wave farms, are being installed and operated in offshore areas worldwide [139]. Remote digital platforms that are affected by weather conditions such as wind, waves, water level, or temperature can reduce the operation and maintenance costs of marine turbines and wave converters by up to 25% [139].

In this industry, developing digital platform technology is crucial. These platforms can help facility management improve the performance of built projects by monitoring and controlling their health status in real-time. In order to make necessary improvements in sustainability, efficiency, and occupant comfort, building owners, facility managers, and city planners require precise and comprehensive information about the performance of the built environment. To obtain this information, Digital Twin technology can be utilized, which creates a virtual replica of a physical system and allows for real-time monitoring, analysis, and optimization.

The continuous evolution of technology has played a vital role in providing quick access to vast amounts of information, bringing about considerable advancements in several fields, particularly digital technology [2] With the increasing development of virtual modeling and data collection technology [3,4], the Digital Twin (DT) concept has become increasingly feasible. DT technology involves the creation of a digital model of the physical environment that adapts to real-time changes and provides optimal outcomes quickly [4].

Digital twin (DT) platforms have the capability to improve and advance themselves by utilizing data gathered from installed sensors that update and simulate information from the environment [4]. The digital twin turbine displays all the data needed to determine the physical turbines' performance based on wind power and turbine engine temperature, and sensors connected to the turbines display the data virtually on the platform. An application program for monitoring and estimating the temperature of turbines and wave converters can be developed and used in the next step (Table 5).

8. Conclusions

The purpose of this article is to review recent studies on digital technology in various industries, with a focus on the construction sector. Digital platforms have various applications, including designing, constructing, operating, and maintaining facilities. As the use of digital platforms in construction sectors increases, data collected in real-time can provide essential information to various communities, aiding in monitoring and controlling assets, optimizing processes, and creating economic value. Despite the significant expansion of online platforms in many sectors, including construction, their full potential has not been realized.

By reviewing successful studies, it is possible to update the application of DT platforms in different industries and fields, defining their purpose. The emergence of new smart technologies such as BIM, point cloud segmentation, artificial intelligence, machine learning in data analysis and sensors, and the successful implementation of DT platforms in the construction industry make it more possible. The application of DT platforms in construction can aid in analyzing the feasibility of designs, monitoring progress according to schedules, monitoring building performance, and managing facilities.

The next step is to investigate the impact of digital platforms on the construction industry and develop a DT application to monitor the progress of construction work and the performance of construction activities, as well as manage available resources and facilities. Predictions show that hospitals, ports, airports, hotels, and similar projects are eager to use digital platform technology installed in other places. The successful implementation of DT platforms in the construction industry can address the various issues faced by this industry, optimizing building performance and aiding in decision-making.