About this Research Topic

Background

The architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry has recently experienced significant technological advancements, particularly in the realms of digital twins (DT) and 3D printing in construction (3DCP). These innovations are seen as pivotal in driving the industry towards Construction 4.0. However, the implementation of digital twins faces the challenge of ensuring that the digital model is continuously updated to accurately reflect its physical counterpart. Additionally, 3DCP must broaden the range of materials used in formulations to ensure that printed constructions meet the highest regulatory standards. Recent studies have shown promising results in both areas, but there remain gaps in fully integrating these technologies throughout the entire lifecycle of construction projects. Addressing these gaps is crucial for advancing the AEC industry and achieving more efficient, sustainable, and safe construction practices.

This research topic aims to consolidate studies on digital twins and 3DCP throughout the lifecycle of construction projects, including design, construction, operation, and demolition/circularity. The main objectives are to explore how these technologies can be effectively integrated to enhance various aspects of construction projects. Specific questions to be addressed include: How can digital twins be maintained to ensure continuous accuracy? What new materials can be developed for 3DCP to meet regulatory standards? How can these technologies improve energy efficiency, indoor environmental quality, and structural health monitoring? By answering these questions, the research aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the potential and limitations of DT and 3DCP in the AEC industry.

To gather further insights into the boundaries of digital twins and 3DCP in the AEC industry, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:
- Occupant behavior
- Indoor environmental quality
- Energy efficiency
- Water consumption
- Facilities maintenance
- Structural health monitoring
- Worker/user/occupant safety
- Digital Twins in 3D printing constructions
- Architectural design with 3D printing constructions
- Integrated Project Design
- New 3D printing materials and solutions
- Challenges in 3D printing constructions

Article types and fees

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Editorial
• Hypothesis and Theory
• Methods
• Mini Review
• Opinion
• Original Research
• Perspective
• Review
• Systematic Review

Articles that are accepted for publication by our external editors following rigorous peer review incur a publishing fee charged to Authors, institutions, or funders.

Article types

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Editorial
• Hypothesis and Theory
• Methods
• Mini Review
• Opinion
• Original Research
• Perspective
• Review
• Systematic Review

Keywords: 3D Printing, Digital Twins, construction projects, Integrated Project Design

Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.

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