Digital Evolution: From BIM to Digital Twin

Abstract. In recent decades, technological advancements in areas such as the Internet of Things (IoT) and artificial intelligence have facilitated the digitalization of various resources, systems, and processes across various industrial sectors. Progress in virtual modeling and data acquisition tech-nology has contributed to the emergence and development of the Digital Twin, a virtual representation of a physical asset that utilizes technologies such as sensors, IoT, communication networks, and 3D models to collect real-time data useful for monitoring its performance throughout its lifecy-cle. This work aims to emphasize the importance of applying Digital Twin technology in the construction sector, which helps understand the evolu-tionary behaviors and performance of a structure over time and space. It considers how the elements (materials, systems, etc.) composing the struc-ture degrade based on various environmental conditions and user occupancy patterns. Simultaneously, through analysis and monitoring of physical as-sets using the digital twin, it becomes possible to determine the optimal time to intervene and replace worn-out components or systems, thus ensur-ing the continuous functionality of the structure to maintain performance at optimal levels. In the coming years, technology will enable the integration of artificial intelligence into the construction sector. This will allow the analysis of performance, both pre- and post-construction, to anticipate evolving needs with a high degree of probability. This will be facilitated by the collection of statistical data and the comparison of performance behav-iors from buildings that are typologically and morphologically similar.