Episode 3: Integrating BIM and Geotechnical Data with Maximilian Weiß

In this episode of Smart Twins, host Jimmy Abualdenien speaks with Maximillian Weiß, Head of BIM and Digital Construction at Deutsche Bahn, about the second core route project in Munich. Weiß leads the BIM GAS team responsible for this megaproject, which aims to ease the pressure on Munich’s public transport system by building a 7-kilometer tunnel with three new stations.

Weiß shares his journey from studying geology at the Technical University of Munich (TUM) to working on major construction projects, including roads, bridges, and train stations. He discusses how his early work in critical foundation construction shaped his shift toward digitalization, specifically how Building Information Modeling (BIM) can improve workflows and solve complex construction challenges. Weiß explains how BIM was first introduced to him in 2016 and describes its use in the design and planning stages of the second core route project.

The conversation dives deep into the challenges of building beneath Munich’s central station, maintaining ongoing train operations while constructing new infrastructure. Weiß also shares insights into using point clouds and LiDAR to digitize existing assets, combining 2D drawings with 3D models to improve accuracy.

Listeners will hear about the significance of simulations in ensuring safety and optimizing passenger flow in new train stations, as well as the use of BIM in both the design and construction phases to keep the project on track. Weiß also touches on future uses of AI and digital twins in construction, offering a glimpse into how Deutsche Bahn is working to stay at the forefront of technological innovation.

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