Hanyang University develops digital twin framework for relocatable modular buildings

Ansan, South Korea, August 15, 2025

News Summary

A research team at Hanyang University ERICA has developed a digital twin–enabled facility management system (DT-FMS) tailored for relocatable modular buildings. The framework integrates BIM, IoT and GIS across three layers—physical, digital and service—to enable real-time monitoring, lifecycle performance analysis, logistics simulation and decision support for module distribution and reuse. A field case using a relocatable modular school project in South Korea demonstrated improved management efficiency, better-informed relocation planning and enhanced potential for circular reuse. The study highlights needs for platform interoperability and workforce training to scale digital twin solutions in modular construction.

New digital‑twin system aims to improve monitoring, logistics and reuse of relocatable modular buildings

Digital twin technology was put to work by a research team at a South Korean university to create a facility management framework for relocatable modular buildings that links three core digital tools to help track, move and reuse modules across their life cycles. The study, published in 2025 in a peer‑reviewed construction journal (DOI: 10.1016/j.autcon.2025.106249), presents a digital twin–enabled facility management system designed to support real‑time monitoring, logistics simulation and lifecycle decision making.

Key findings and claims up front

The new framework integrates building information modeling (BIM), Internet of Things (IoT) and geographic information systems (GIS) into a single digital model. In practical tests on a relocatable modular school in South Korea, the system improved management efficiency and helped planners make better choices about where to distribute modules and when to reuse or relocate them. The developers say the approach supports circular‑economy goals by reducing waste and maximizing value over repeated project cycles.

Who led the research

The lead research team was led by an associate professor from the School of Architecture & Architectural Engineering at a South Korean campus of a major university. The team included additional contributors from the same university. The published paper was edited and reviewed as part of journal editorial processes; the public story page records an August 14, 2025 date and indicates the article was edited and reviewed and that content was fact‑checked and proofread.

How the system works

The framework, called DT‑FMS in the paper, is built on three connected layers:

• Physical layer: Tracks and communicates with real objects — modular units, on‑site resources, equipment and people such as stakeholders, engineers and workers — using sensors and networked links.
• Digital layer: Hosts BIM models, integrates IoT sensor feeds and GIS location data, and applies analytics and simulation tools to produce performance and logistics insights.
• Service layer: Presents interactive tools for users to monitor conditions, run logistics scenarios, and make lifecycle decisions including reuse, reconfiguration and relocation.

Roles of BIM, IoT and GIS

According to the research team’s description, BIM provides accurate 3‑D models and structured building data; IoT delivers ongoing sensor information such as environmental and status readings; and GIS supplies geographic context that helps route modules, plan sites and support location‑based decision making. By joining these elements in a digital twin, the framework enables live monitoring, performance analysis and logistics simulation across a building’s life.

Case study results

The team applied the system to a relocatable modular school project in South Korea. Trial use of the DT‑FMS showed clearer insights for moving and reusing modules and led to what the authors describe as improved management efficiency. The study also highlights how this combined data approach can support reuse and reconfiguration of units to reduce material waste across repeating projects.

Why this matters for modular construction

Modular construction is growing as a way to speed delivery and keep quality consistent, but it faces challenges such as rising upfront factory and logistics costs, limits to module size due to transport and lifting gear, and regulatory hurdles. Decision tools that improve logistics and enable safe reuse of modules can reduce waste and operating cost over multiple projects. The research points to digital twins as a way to extend modular benefits beyond initial build and delivery into whole‑life asset management.

Publication and disclosure

The study appears in an academic journal issue dated 2025 and is listed under the title “Digital twin framework to enhance facility management for relocatable modular buildings.” The public summary page notes the article was edited and reviewed, mentions a review process consistent with editorial policies, and states that a short summary was generated automatically using a large language model. The published paper includes the DOI 10.1016/j.autcon.2025.106249 for reference.

Context in the regional market

Regional industry activity shows growing interest in modular methods for housing and public buildings, with prototype and taller modular projects under way and government and private plans to expand unit commissioning over coming years. Firms and public agencies are testing modular approaches for faster delivery, reduced labor needs and better sustainability, while also working through cost and regulatory constraints.

Practical takeaway

The research provides a practical model for integrating spatial data, building models and live sensors to manage relocatable modules across planning, operation and reuse phases. For project teams and asset managers, the DT‑FMS offers a route to better logistics, clearer reuse decisions and more efficient lifecycle management of modular units.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Key features at a glance

Feature	What it does
DT‑FMS framework	Combines modeling, sensors and maps to manage relocatable modular units through their lifecycle.
Physical layer	Tracks real objects and people with sensors and communications links.
Digital layer	Stores BIM models, ingests IoT feeds and GIS data, runs analytics and simulations.
Service layer	Offers user interfaces for monitoring, control and decision support.
Case study	Applied to a relocatable modular school system; reported improved management efficiency and better reuse decisions.
Primary benefits	Improved logistics, lower waste through reuse, enhanced lifecycle decision making.
Reference	Published paper: DOI 10.1016/j.autcon.2025.106249 (Automation in Construction, 2025).

Published on Aug 14, 2025. Article page noted editorial review and that a short summary was automatically generated with an LLM. For the full technical details and methods, consult the published paper via the DOI above.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

Additional Resources

• Tech Xplore: Digital‑twin framework for relocatable modular buildings (Hanyang University)
• Wikipedia: Digital twin
• Korea Bizwire: Modular construction takes off in South Korea
• Wikipedia: Modular construction
• Korea Bizwire: LG’s modular smart cottage in Korea
• Google Search: smart modular cottage South Korea
• Reuters: South Korea plans two new large nuclear reactors
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Search — South Korea nuclear power
• Bloomberg: South Korea turning to small reactors
• Google Scholar: small modular reactors South Korea