In the rapidly evolving landscape of smart and green buildings, a groundbreaking review published in the *International Journal of Thermofluids* (which translates to the *International Journal of Heat and Fluid Flow*) is shedding light on the transformative potential of Digital Twin (DT) technology. Led by Concetta Semeraro from the University of Sharjah, this research delves into how DTs are revolutionizing the architecture, engineering, and construction sectors, with a particular focus on enhancing sustainability and performance.
The study, which analyzed 93 peer-reviewed articles, categorizes DT applications into two main areas: smart buildings and green buildings. Semeraro and her team highlight the critical role of enabling technologies such as Building Information Modeling (BIM), the Internet of Things (IoT), and Artificial Intelligence (AI) in driving the integration, automation, and optimization capabilities of DTs. “These technologies are not just complementary; they are foundational,” Semeraro explains. “They provide the backbone for DTs to function effectively, enabling real-time monitoring, predictive maintenance, and energy management.”
The findings reveal that DTs are being increasingly used for energy management, predictive maintenance, occupant-centric control, and environmental monitoring. For instance, DTs can simulate and optimize energy consumption patterns, helping buildings achieve net-zero energy goals. They can also predict equipment failures before they occur, reducing downtime and maintenance costs. “The potential is immense,” Semeraro notes. “DTs can help us create buildings that are not only smarter but also more sustainable and comfortable for occupants.”
However, the review also identifies a significant gap: most of the evidence supporting these benefits is theoretical or based on simulations rather than empirical validation at the full building scale. This highlights the need for more real-world testing and validation to fully realize the potential of DTs.
Looking ahead, the research outlines a comprehensive research agenda with three core research gaps and five corresponding directions for future work. These include developing more robust DT models, integrating them with other emerging technologies, and validating their performance in real-world settings. “The future of DTs in the built environment is bright, but it requires a concerted effort from researchers, industry professionals, and policymakers,” Semeraro says.
For the energy sector, the implications are profound. DTs can help optimize energy use, reduce waste, and improve the overall efficiency of buildings. This can lead to significant cost savings and a reduced carbon footprint, aligning with global sustainability goals. As the technology matures, it is poised to reshape the way we design, construct, and manage buildings, paving the way for a more sustainable and energy-efficient future.
In conclusion, Semeraro’s research provides a roadmap for advancing DT adoption in the built environment. It underscores the need for continued innovation and collaboration to harness the full potential of this transformative technology. As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change and energy efficiency, DTs offer a promising solution, one that could redefine the future of smart and green buildings.