A planning model, not a collection of files
Digital factory models for planning and brownfield conversion provide a controlled basis for decisions in existing facilities. A digital factory model combines verified as-built geometry with the information required for a defined planning decision. It can support layout options, clearance checks, installation planning, quantities and multidisciplinary coordination without pretending that every object has the same accuracy or approval status.
Information requirements and model maturity
Before modelling, the use case determines the required geometry, attributes, coordinate reference, tolerance, delivery format and update responsibility. Source, capture date and status remain visible. Work in progress, shared information and approved deliveries are separated.
Capture
Geometry, source and coordinates
Structure
Objects, attributes and status
Review
Issues, checks and approval
Use
Planning options and decisions
The information structure follows the current VDI 4499 Part 1:2026-04 context and DIN EN ISO 19650-1:2019-08 for information management.
Workflow
- Define use cases and level of information need.
- Review existing plans and establish the spatial reference.
- Capture missing geometry through terrestrial or mobile scanning.
- Register, clean and validate point clouds.
- Create and enrich the planning model.
- Review options, issues and approvals in a common data environment.
Results and deliverables
- Registered point-cloud and source documentation
- Planning-ready factory model with defined scope
- Coordinate, naming and attribute structure
- Option models at a comparable level of detail
- Issue, review and release record
Distinction from a digital twin
The factory model represents a controlled planning state. A digital twin adds governed operational data connections and an ongoing update process.
Related planning context: digital methods in factory planning.
Technical basis and limitations
The model is not built to the greatest possible level of detail, but to the information need of the pending decision. Geometry, attributes, coordinate reference, source, status and approval are managed together. Work in progress remains separate from reviewed and authorised information deliveries.
The current framework includes VDI 4499 for the Digital Factory and DIN EN ISO 19650 for information management. The model does not replace discipline-specific approval or as-built verification outside the agreed survey scope.