OHL opts for digitalization: BIM, Big Data, Data Analytics and smart cities

OHL is driving a process of transformation with the aim of becoming a cutting-edge company in digitalization within its sector. In this context, the Group has launched its Systems Master Plan 2016-2020 geared towards promoting the digitalization of the value chain of each of the areas of activity of the company.  

With respect to the digitalization of the processes associated with project management, the implementation of BIM (Building Information Modeling) on a range of building and infrastructure types stands out among the main lines of work being carried out in the company. Outstanding specific examples include the Eastern Vespucio Toll Road (Chile), the reconstruction of the Ski station (Norway), the 72nd Street subway station in Manhattan (USA) and the Gustavo Fricke Hospital (Chile).

Other significant digital transformation projects are related to data exploitation with Big Data and Data Analytics, the development of intelligent concession infrastructure management systems and the implementation of management platforms that can be integrated with smart cities for synchronizing the company’s operations with the demands of cities.

In addition to these projects, as of today OHL already has examples of the actual application of the most advanced digital technologies. In the scope of transportation infrastructures, OHL has incorporated digitalization into the field of surveying with the development of automatic photogrammetry supported by drones; while in the marine environment, OHL has pioneered, for more than a decade, the development and use of digital technologies that make it possible to learn the topography of the seabed with significant precision.

In the field of landmark construction, OHL has the MES (Monitoring of Landmark Structures) platform, an automated high-precision system that enables the control and monitoring in real time of the eventual movements that could occur during the construction or use of landmark structures (tall buildings, bridges, tunnels, dams, heritage buildings,…). This makes it possible to monitor structures with possible exposure to severe seismic movements, such as the projects carried out by the Group in Latin America, or buildings with high historical value, such as the façade of Centro Canalejas, in Madrid (Spain). On the other hand, through the application virtual simulation in its projects, the Group is capable of predicting the impact of certain infrastructures on the community during the design phase to enable it to propose solutions that will minimize such impact in the construction phase.

A pioneer more than 20 years ago

OHL has been a breaking new ground for more than 20 years, by developing in-house technologies that have led to the development of tools such as the works control and management system, used in all of its construction projects, or the procurement system, which is being used in practically all of its projects.

The development of technologies of its own by OHL is supported by the collaboration it maintains with universities and its alliances with research centers and technological partners.