An Effective Digital Twin Modeling Method for Infrastructure: Application to Smart Pumping Stations

Digital twin technology has evolved from a theoretical concept to practical application, facilitating seamless data exchange between virtual and physical domains. Although there has been progress, the infrastructure industry, which is recognized for its intricate nature and the need for timely action, is still in the first phases of digital twin advancement. A significant obstacle in this field is the absence of established definitions and modeling standards, which impede the precise depiction of infrastructure systems. To address these challenges, this paper proposes a high-precision digital twin modeling method tailored for pumping stations. The method focuses on two key scenarios: first, we construct an overall digital twin model that contains both physical entities and operational processes of pumping stations; second, we design a modeling process applicable to pumping stations by analyzing the deficiencies of the existing standard system. Additionally, we selected the East–West Water Transfer Project in China as a case study to demonstrate the high-precision digital twin model of a pumping station. This model will include essential components, such as the modeling of pumping stations, the operational processes of pumping stations, and the modeling of system operation analysis. Serving as the database for the digital twin, it can complete the automatic inspection of the pumping station, optimization of scheduling, prediction and regulation of energy and carbon emissions, and visualization of results for display and other applications. The model realized the benefits of 100% automatic inspection rate, reduction of eight corresponding operating personnel, and comprehensive cost saving of RMB 2.25 million. The objective of this research is to narrow the divide between theoretical concepts and real-world implementations by pushing the boundaries of digital twin modeling and offering valuable insights for its utilization in the infrastructure industry. It establishes the foundation for progress in the field of digital twin technology in the specific context of intricate infrastructure projects. This project aims to improve the practicality of digital twin technology in real-world situations, namely in the infrastructure industry.