Technological advancements and the vision of a meta smart twin city
Hamlet David Reynoso Vanderhorst, David Heesom, Komali Yenneti
Abstract
Recent digital advancements have led the construction industry to reassess its core principles, placing critical issues such as construction site impacts, aesthetics, methodologies, and sustainability under rigorous scrutiny. The challenges hindering the digital transformation of the sector remain unclear and understanding of timing, location, reasons, and ways in which the industry is evolving is crucial, especially as digital operations become more prevalent compared to traditional methods. At the forefront of the digital transformation is the concept of the "digital twin", which has emerged as a key approach in shaping the industry's future. Integrating Building Information Modelling (BIM) with the Internet of Things (IoT) has enhanced project engagement, though challenges persist. Traditionally, a digital twin represents the construction process and its interactions. However, this definition often misses the transactional and experiential aspects that integrate users into the process. Technologies like blockchain and the metaverse, combined with the digital twin, offer insights into the future of construction projects. Municipalities that adopt digital twins and metaverse representations of their commercial activities throughout construction phases are likely to set future standards for societal specifications. As some specifications such as architectural designs should be grounded in the diverse aspirations and experiences sought by citizens. This paper aims to explore the ways digital twins, smart urban environments, blockchain technology, and other reality capture datasets contribute to the vision of digital and physical construction domains. It examines the interaction and convergence of new spatial constructs, highlight the critical role of data acquisition technologies, and present a comprehensive framework for user experience and the future of Meta Smart Twin Cities. • Seamless Fusion of Realms : The Meta Smart Twin City seamlessly integrates physical and virtual realms, reshaping urban experiences. • Unparalleled Urban Insights : Utilizing digital twins and metaverse platforms, it provides unprecedented insights into urban dynamics, from disaster management to sensory perceptions. • Innovative Governance Framework : It introduces innovative areas for tax into a virtual environment. • Socio-Technical Considerations : Balancing innovation with privacy, security, and ethics, it navigates barriers, and engages users. • Toward Sustainable Urban Futures : A transformative pathway to redefine urban environments, it leverages technology, drives economic viability, and contributes to net-zero carbon emissions.