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The Construction Industry Council (CIC) launched the CIC Digital Twin Hub to advance productivity and efficiency in the construction industry through digital technologies. Recognising the sector’s growing demand for talent and innovation, CIC Industry Development Director Alex Ho emphasised the significance of digitalisation, prompting the establishment of the hub to educate industry stakeholders about digital twin technology.
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Digital twin technology involves creating a virtual representation of a real-world object, system, or process. This technology aids in managing construction projects and resources effectively, boosting productivity, and simultaneously reducing risks and costs. The hub serves as a collaborative platform showcasing various advanced technologies, fostering knowledge exchange on digital twin concepts and applications.
The CIC Digital Twin Hub features four key areas: the Showcase Area, Multi-Purpose Area, Digital Twin Lab, and the Smart Site Construction Management Corner. These sections are designed to highlight innovative equipment and strengthen the application of Smart Site Safety System technology.
One notable aspect of the hub is the Smart Site Construction Management Corner, which displays the latest safety-enhancing technologies. This area includes smart helmets and smart watches equipped with sensors to monitor workers’ locations and health conditions. For instance, smart helmets can come with temperature and heart rate sensors, transmitting data to a central monitoring platform to ensure worker safety. If any irregularities are detected, alerts are sent to facilitate immediate attention to the affected worker.
Since its inception in Kowloon Bay in July 2023, the hub has hosted various activities, such as experience-sharing sessions, guided tours, and advisory workshops. In the past ten months, approximately 150 group guided tours have been conducted, attracting around 5,000 visitors, including industry professionals, government officials, and students.
The hub’s Smart Site Management Corner has garnered particular attention. For example, Frankie Leung, a Structural Engineer from the Buildings Department, expressed his appreciation for the technological advancements showcased during a guided tour. He highlighted the potential of digital technology to minimise industrial accidents and improve construction site safety. Leung underscored the importance of both government departments and the local construction industry prioritising the application of digital technology to enhance building and site safety.
The CIC Digital Twin Hub not only provides a platform for showcasing technology but also facilitates education and training for those interested in digital twin technology. Free lectures and workshops are available for individuals to learn about the latest industry developments and gain insights into the practical applications of digital twin technology.
Overall, the CIC Digital Twin Hub is a pivotal initiative aimed at integrating digital technologies into the construction industry. By providing a comprehensive platform for showcasing, educating, and collaborating on digital twin technology, the hub plays a crucial role in driving the industry towards greater efficiency, safety, and innovation.
OpenGov Asia earlier reported that the Hong Kong Applied Science and Technology Research Institute (ASTRI) launched the “ConTech and PropTech Alliance,” an initiative designed to advance the construction industry through innovative technologies.
The alliance aims to enhance construction efficiency, quality, and safety, ultimately accelerating industry development. The event was officiated by the Secretary for Housing of the HKSAR Government, along with the Chairman of ASTRI, and the Chief Executive Officer of ASTRI.
The launch of ASTRI’s “ConTech and PropTech Alliance” complements the efforts of the Construction Industry Council (CIC) and its Digital Twin Hub, further driving innovation in the construction sector. Both initiatives emphasise the importance of integrating advanced technologies to enhance efficiency, quality, and safety within the industry.