Hanyang University ERICA unveils digital twin framework for relocatable modular buildings

Ansan, South Korea, August 19, 2025

News Summary

A research team at Hanyang University ERICA developed a digital twin–enabled facility management system (DT-FMS) to improve tracking, management and reuse of relocatable modular buildings. The platform integrates BIM, IoT sensors and GIS to create a real-time virtual model that supports monitoring, logistics and decision support across three layers: physical, digital and service. Tested on a relocatable modular school in South Korea, the framework improved module distribution, reuse and operational efficiency. Researchers say the approach can support circular construction by extending component life, though wider adoption needs data standards, sensor investment and manager training.

Hanyang University ERICA unveils a digital-twin framework to manage relocatable modular buildings and boost circularity

Researchers at Hanyang University ERICA have unveiled a new digital twin–enabled facility management system (DT-FMS) aimed at improving the lifecycle management and circular use of relocatable modular buildings (RMBs). The system links real-world modular assets to live virtual models and is intended to help the fast-growing modular building industry track, reuse and move modules between sites more efficiently.

What the new framework does

The framework is built to manage RMBs from assembly through transport, reuse and final decommissioning. It combines BIM, IoT sensors and GIS mapping to provide three core functions: 3D modelling, sensor-based monitoring and location-driven logistics planning. The platform is organized into three layers — physical, digital and service — so teams can follow components, people and data across a building’s life.

Key design and features

• Physical layer: Tracks modules, equipment and human actors on site and supports communication between real-world components and stakeholders.
• Digital layer: Integrates BIM models with live IoT data and GIS, enabling data analytics and 3D visualisation of asset condition and location.
• Service layer: Provides interfaces for monitoring, operational control and decision-making to support reuse, relocation and maintenance planning.

Research testing and results

The team tested the framework using a relocatable modular school system in South Korea. The case study showed improved module distribution, higher rates of reuse and better management efficiency. Those operational improvements were tied to further reductions in operational costs and energy efficiency. The testing suggested that better tracking and predictive analytics can reduce idle time for modules, streamline logistics and extend component life, which all help lower the environmental footprint of modular construction.

Why this matters

Modular construction already offers cost and environmental advantages over conventional builds because much of the work happens offsite and modules can be reused. But a persistent problem is tracking and managing modules as they move through multiple lifecycles and sites. The new DT-FMS aims to fill that gap by giving owners and managers a real-time, data-driven view of where modules are, how they are performing and when they are ready for reuse or maintenance.

Leadership and publication

The research was led by Associate Professor Yonghan Ahn and includes co-author Dr. Dennis Nguyen. The team published their framework in the journal Automation in Construction earlier this month. They describe the approach as a way to bring the advantages of digital twins into modular construction, where use of that technology is still limited compared with other industries. The researchers say the system can support circular economy practices by enabling reuse, reconfiguration and optimal relocation of modular units, which helps reduce waste and maximise value.

How the system could be used by industry

Adopters could deploy the DT-FMS to manage fleets of modular classrooms, temporary offices, medical units or housing blocks. By tying sensor data to BIM models and location services, operators gain tools for predictive maintenance, informed logistics planning and evidence-based decisions about reuse and refurbishment. The approach is likely to appeal to operators looking to cut operating costs, improve energy performance and meet sustainability goals.

Authorship and background

This report draws on a published research article and related case work. The contributing writer credited on the original article is Scarlett Evans, a freelance writer who focuses on emerging technologies and the minerals industry and who has prior experience as an assistant editor covering robotics and smart city technologies.

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Frequently asked questions

Key features summary

Feature	Description
Purpose	Improve lifecycle management and support circular economy practices for relocatable modular buildings.
Core technologies	BIM, IoT sensors, GIS and digital twin models.
Platform structure	Organised into physical, digital and service layers for tracking, analysis and decision support.
Primary benefits	Better module distribution, higher reuse rates, management efficiency, lower operational costs and improved energy efficiency.
Test case	Relocatable modular school system in South Korea demonstrated practical gains in reuse and logistics.
Lead researchers	Associate Professor Yonghan Ahn and co-author Dr. Dennis Nguyen.
Publication	Findings published in the journal Automation in Construction.

Contributing writer: Scarlett Evans, freelance writer specialising in emerging technologies and the mining and resources sector.

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Additional Resources

• KoreaTechDesk: E8 – Leading Korea’s digital-twin revolution with deep-tech innovation
• Wikipedia: Digital twin
• GIM International: Seoul Metropolitan Government collaborates on hyper-realistic digital twin project
• Google Search: relocatable modular building
• DroneLife: A model of Korea — the ambitious project to make a digital twin of a country
• Google Scholar: digital twin modular construction
• GeoWeek: Techtree Innovation & Seoul government digital twin project for urban safety services
• Encyclopedia Britannica: modular construction
• PR Newswire: LG Innotek collaborates to drive its digital-twin technology
• Google News: digital twin modular building South Korea