Digital transformation for sustainable asset management: Integrating blockchain and AI with digital twins in building operations

The swift evolution of building management systems necessitates the integration of advanced digital technologies to enhance operational efficiency, data security, and predictive maintenance. This thesis explores the potential and implementation challenges of integrating advanced technologies, namely, Blockchain, Digital Twins (DTs), Artificial Intelligence (AI), and the Internet of Things (IoT) within the smart built environment. Through a systematic review of current literature and empirical analysis, this research presents a comprehensive framework for these disruptive technologies' synergistic application, focusing on their impact on Asset Lifecycle Management (ALM). Key findings demonstrate that Blockchain's immutable and transparent data handling capabilities significantly enhance the reliability and trustworthiness of DT data. The integration of AI with DTs facilitates predictive maintenance and optimization of building operations by providing real-time data analytics and automated decision-making processes. However, the study acknowledges substantial barriers, including the compatibility issues and the fragmented implementation of these technologies in the operation and maintenance (O&M) phase of building facilities throughout ALM. To address these challenges, a conceptual framework and platform prototype were developed, showcasing practical solutions for integrating these technologies into Building Management Systems (BMS). The proposed framework emphasizes real-time data tracking, secure data storage, and automated maintenance task execution, leading to increased operational efficiency and cost savings. This research contributes to the body of knowledge by providing a structured approach to integrating advanced technologies into BMS, highlighting the practical implications and sustainability benefits. The findings underscore the importance of stakeholder engagement and the need for continuous technological adaptation to realize the full potential of smart assetmanagement in the built environment. Den snabba utvecklingen av byggnadsförvaltningssystem kräver integration av avancerade digitala teknologier för att förbättra driftseffektivitet, datasäkerhet och prediktivt underhåll. Denna avhandling utforskar potentialen och implementeringsutmaningarna med att integrera avancerade teknologier, nämligen Blockchain, Digitala tvillingar (DTs), Artificiell Intelligens (AI) och Internet of Things (IoT) inom den smarta byggda miljön. Genom en systematisk