Automated CPT interpretation and modelling in a BIM/Digital Twin environment

Abstract

Following up on previous research on Automated Parameter Determination (APD), in which the soil stratification and numerical model parameters are automatically derived from individual CPTs, this article describes ongoing research in which the geotechnical modelling workflow is further automated in a BIM / Digital Twin environment. Especially in a preliminary project phase, when limited soil data are available, a workflow in which CPT data are used to automatically create a 3D geological model from which 2D or 3D numerical models can be extracted, may be very helpful in exploring different design alternatives. For existing (infrastructural) projects, such an automated system in a Digital Twin environment could also help responsible authorities to check the infrastructure’s safety under changing conditions. In addition to the description of technical solutions used for automatic layer detection and clustering (based on Machine Learning) across different CPTs, the article touches upon the discussion on transparency and accessibility of the automated system in view of the expertise and responsibilities of the operating geotechnical engineer.