New Approaches for Efficient Asset Management.
The demand for new construction and maintenance of railway infrastructure is immense. This necessitates a rethinking of how relevant structural information is prepared. RSRG has already embraced this new thinking.
For the first time in Austria, the Koralm Tunnel (p. 12), a large and complex railway construction project, was created using BIM methodology. RSRG and its partner company EDS 4.0 were responsible for this innovative approach.
BIM: Building Geometry and Information in One Model
For the first time for such a large and complex project in Austria, BIM models were created. All information is integrated – from the structural shell to mechanical systems, HVAC, telecommunications, energy technology, and control and safety systems. The model was created with a high level of detail and digitally represents the physical infrastructure.
Linking Objects with Data and Documents
However, BIM goes far beyond visual representation. Each individual object in the model is linked with the necessary documents. Installation and maintenance plans are just a click away. Thanks to attributes like “manufacturer” and “equipment type”, which were collected during the construction phase and incorporated into the model, the asset manager can see at a glance which parts are installed.
The Digital Twin: Future-Proofing Railway Infrastructure
The BIM model is just the first step. The real “magic” happens when we create the digital twin. This involves linking the physical asset with its digital representation. This allows for real-time monitoring of conditions, identification of faults, and efficient planning of maintenance activities. Further developments are needed to reach this stage, but the first step has been taken!
