At the 2024 Going Digital Awards, hosted by Bentley Systems in Vancouver, several projects from Asia were recognised for their innovative use of infrastructure engineering software. Out of 250 nominated projects from 36 countries, notable winners from the region included:
- China ENFI Engineering Co., Ltd.: Awarded in the Facilities, Campuses, and Cities category for their Digital Construction Project of Comprehensive Waste Management Facilities in Xiong’an New Area. This project showcases advancements in digital construction methodologies.
- PowerChina Zhongnan Engineering Corporation Limited: Honored in the Process and Power Generation category for the Shandong Energy Group Bozhong Offshore Wind Farm Site A Project, highlighting significant contributions to renewable energy infrastructure.
- Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) of the Philippines: Recognized for their Digital Twin Implementation for NLEX-SLEX Connector Road Project in the Roads and Highways category, demonstrating cutting-edge digital twin technology in road construction.
- Water Supplies Department of Hong Kong: Awarded in the Surveying and Monitoring category for creating a Digital Twin of the Ex-Sham Shui Po Service Reservoir, illustrating innovative monitoring techniques for water management.
- Southwest Electric Power Design Institute Co., Ltd. of China Power Engineering Consulting Group: Their project, Butuo ±800-kV Converter Station, won in the Transmission and Distribution category, showcasing advancements in electrical infrastructure.
These projects highlight the significant contributions of Asian organizations to the field of infrastructure, emphasizing the role of digital technology in enhancing project delivery and asset performance across various sectors.
Bentley CEO Nicholas Cumins opened the event on Oct. 8 with a vision for the future: “Together, we’re laying the groundwork for a future where open data ecosystems and AI seamlessly work together to create more sustainable and resilient infrastructure for better quality of life, for generations to come.”
This year's event featured Bentley’s iLab, an immersive experience powered by geospatial and digital twin technology, artificial intelligence (AI) and generative AI. “The technology we’re seeing here is amazing for cities,” said Jamie Cudden, smart city program manager with the Dublin City Council in Ireland. Calling it a game changer, he said you can layer 3D data and engage citizens.
Bentley also made big announcements during the event, including a strategic partnership with Google, the launch of the generative AI-powered tool OpenSite+ and new carbon analysis capabilities to help reduce emissions. “AI allows us to do more with less,” said Joe Viscuso, senior vice president and director of strategic growth at Pennoni, the U.S. engineering consulting firm. “It improves the accuracy of our projects and the methods we use for delivery.”
