#South Korea #Digital Twin #Hanyang University #Gyeonggi-do #Modular Buildings

Hanyang University Researchers Innovate with Digital Twin Technology

In a remarkable stride towards sustainable construction, researchers from Hanyang University in South Korea have developed a groundbreaking digital twin facility management system specifically for relocatable modular buildings (RMBs). This innovative system enhances management efficiency throughout the lifecycle of modular buildings, addressing common logistics challenges that hinder their wider adoption in the construction industry.

Relocatable modular buildings are an emerging and flexible construction solution, characterized by their ability to be assembled from prefabricated modules and easily transported. This method reduces costs and minimizes environmental impact while fostering safer and cleaner construction environments. Despite their benefits, effective management of these modular assets during repeated lifecycles has presented significant challenges.

Led by Associate Professor Yonghan Ahn from the School of Architecture and Architectural Engineering at Hanyang University ERICA, the research team sought to revolutionize this area with a novel digital twin (DT)-based framework tailored to RMB projects. According to Prof. Ahn, "Digital twin technology offers a digital replica of physical assets, integrating real-time data, predictive analysis, and enhanced decision-making capabilities."

Though digital twins have gained traction in various fields, their application in modular construction has been limited—until now. The newly developed digital twin-enabled facility management system (DT-FMS) integrates advanced technologies such as Building Information Modeling (BIM), the Internet of Things (IoT), and Geographic Information Systems (GIS). This sophisticated integration allows for comprehensive virtual modeling of RMBs, supporting real-time monitoring, performance analysis, and logistics simulations throughout the building lifecycle.

Integration of Advanced Technologies

1. Building Information Modeling (BIM): This technology provides robust 3D modeling and extensive building information, allowing for precise planning and management.
2. Internet of Things (IoT): With the help of real-time sensor data, IoT enables continuous updates and monitoring of the building’s conditions and performance.
3. Geographic Information Systems (GIS): GIS contributes vital geographic data, enhancing the logistics management of modular units and enabling location-based decision-making.

The proposed framework operates across three interconnected layers: physical, digital, and service. The physical layer facilitates real-time tracking and communication among various physical components, including resources, modular units, and personnel. Meanwhile, the digital layer encompasses modeling tools, data integration, and analytics, providing a comprehensive overview of the system’s operations. Finally, the service layer supports users in monitoring and controlling the digital twin framework, facilitating effective decision-making throughout each project's lifecycle.

Real-world Applications

To validate the practical application of their framework, the researchers conducted a case study on a relocatable modular school system situated in South Korea. This case study demonstrated that the DT-FMS significantly enhanced decision-making regarding module distribution and reuse, resulting in improved management efficiency overall.

Dr. Dennis Nguyen, a collaborator on the project, emphasizes the importance of digital twins in creating a circular economy within construction. “Our research underscores how this technology enables the reuse, reconfiguration, and optimal relocation of modular units, thereby minimizing waste and maximizing value through repeated project cycles,” he states.

This pioneering study was published in the August 2025 issue of the journal Automation in Construction. The findings are pivotal not just for sustainable construction methods but also signify a crucial step in the broader digital transformation of the construction industry.

As the world pivots towards more sustainable and efficient building practices, Hanyang University's advances in digital twin technologies illuminate a promising path forward for relocatable modular buildings—a solution that could redefine modern construction paradigms.