Autodesk Tandem - Solutions for Digital Twins era
- Thuy La
- Apr 2
- 3 min read
Updated: Apr 4
A digital twin is a dynamic digital replica of a physical asset or environment, like a car, bridge, or building. Unlike static 3D models, it continuously updates with new information. This digital reference is established during the project planning phase and extends through every stage of the asset's lifecycle, including design, manufacturing, construction, operation, maintenance, and even future use or repurposing.
What is Digital twin for architecture, engineering,
construction and operation ?
Digital twins in architecture, engineering, construction, and operations (AECO) are comprehensive replicas of built assets and their systems.
A digital twin asset could take the form of:
A building
An infrastructure element, such as a bridge
A complex ecosystem of connected assets, such as a rail network, an office park, or a city
How does Digital Twin in construction works ?
In the construction industry, digital twins manage various types of data, such as:
Operational data for HVAC and MEP systems
Parts and maintenance information
Environmental data from IoT sensors
During the design and construction phases, digital twins provide a cost-effective way to test and refine ideas before actual construction begins. You can adjust variables like facade design or the number of levels, and the digital twin will automatically update related aspects like wiring diagrams, HVAC requirements, and environmental impacts.
Once the project is completed and operational, digital twins continue to be valuable. They can monitor how workspaces use light and power, how people interact with the environment, and other metrics to identify efficiencies and performance improvements.
For new projects, a digital twin is created at the start, with AEC teams and owners setting performance goals. As the project progresses, data is continuously collected and integrated into the model using platforms like Autodesk Tandem. When the asset is handed over, the digital twin gathers operational data to optimize performance, manage maintenance, and support future use or decommissioning.
Because digital twins evolve with data from their physical counterparts, they can simulate and predict responses to real-time conditions. This makes design iterations faster and more cost-effective. For example, aligning a building's solar facade with the sun's path or adjusting indoor airflow to reduce pathogen spread can be efficiently managed.
What is Autodesk Tandem ?
Autodesk Tandem is a platform designed to create and manage digital twins of buildings and infrastructure. It integrates data from various stages of a project's lifecycle—design, construction, and operations—into a cohesive digital model. This digital twin evolves with real-time data, providing a comprehensive view of the asset.
By using Autodesk Tandem, stakeholders can monitor and analyze the performance of their buildings, optimize operations, and enhance efficiency. The platform supports sustainable practices by enabling informed decision-making throughout the asset's lifecycle. From initial planning to ongoing maintenance and future modifications, Autodesk Tandem helps ensure that buildings operate at their best.
Autodesk Tandem's key features
Autodesk Tandem is a powerful tool for creating and managing digital twins of buildings. Here are some of its key features:
Insightful Operations: Gain near real-time data on your building's systems, establish trends, and make informed decisions with 3D visualizations like heatmaps and charts
Efficient Data Management: Easily search, filter, and access building data, saving time and effort. You can also bookmark valuable 3D visualizations for quick reference
Comprehensive Asset Indexing: Every asset is itemized, allowing for detailed interaction with facility data. The Inventory feature supports bulk imports, easy editing, and simple navigation
Integration with IoT Sensors: Review data from IoT sensors to understand facility performance and identify optimization opportunities
Enhanced Spatial Awareness: Map out systems within the context of the whole facility, making it easier to pinpoint issues and understand system connections
Streamlined Handover Process: The twin builder can hand over ownership of the digital twin with a click, ensuring smooth operations from day one
These features make Autodesk Tandem a valuable tool for both building and operating digital twins, helping to optimize building performance and streamline operations.
Sources : Autodesk Tandem
An experienced Solutions Consultant and Civil Engineer with 12 years of experience in the construction industry. Engaged in various roles throughout the project lifecycle, including designer, contractor, and client. Currently working as a Solution Consultant Manager for Autodesk VAD (Techdata | TD Synnex - Datech Solutions).
Concentrating on spearheading the digital transformation of the construction industry by providing expert consultation and guidance on optimal workflows for clients.
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