Digital built environment

The built environment is undergoing a profound digital transformation, driven by rapid advancements in technology and the increasing need for more intelligent, efficient, sustainable, and resilient buildings and infrastructure. Digital built environment (DBE) integrates cutting-edge technologies to enhance the entire lifecycle of built environment assets, from conceptualisation and planning to construction, operation, and decommissioning, ensuring that these assets deliver tangible benefits for both industry and society.

Work within this theme aims to harness automation, real-time data, and advanced modelling techniques to address key challenges in the built environment, such as reducing carbon footprints, enhancing efficiency, productivity, enabling positive social impact, and improving well-being, and decision-making.

Research topics

• Automated Design and Parametric Modelling 
  Investigating how automation and algorithm-driven design optimise efficiency, sustainability, and customisation in the built environment.
• Building Information Modelling (BIM) and Digital Twins
  Exploring the role of BIM and real-time digital replicas of physical assets in collaboration, monitoring, analysing, and optimising asset performance and lifecycle management. 
• AI and Machine Learning
  Examining how artificial intelligence enhances predictive analytics, automation, and decision-making processes in the built environment.
• Internet of Things (IoT)
  Assessing the impact of connected sensors and devices on real-time data collection, performance monitoring, and adaptive built environment asset management.
• Digital Construction Methods and Robotics
  Evaluating the integration of robotics, automation, 3D-printing and advanced manufacturing techniques in modern construction processes to improve safety, precision, efficiency and productivity.
• Blockchain and Digital Supply Chain Management  
  Investigating how blockchain technology enhances transparency, security, and traceability in and the creation and management of the built environment.
• Sustainability and Lifecycle Assessment through Digitalisation
  Exploring how digital tools support environmental impact assessments, material optimisation, and circular economy strategies.
• Extended Reality
  Examining the role of immersive technologies in stakeholder collaboration, safety management, design, project planning, construction, operation and asset management.
• Digital Product Passports
  Investigating the development and implementation of Digital Product Passports to enhance material traceability, circularity, and data-driven decision-making throughout the project lifecycle.
• Cybersecurity and Data Governance
  Addressing the risks and challenges of data security, privacy, and regulatory compliance in an increasingly connected and digitalised industry.

Contact

For further information, please contact Dr Alireza Moghayedi (alireza.moghayedi@uwe.ac.uk) or Dr Eduardo Costa (eduardo.costa@uwe.ac.uk).