A Review of Intelligent Subway Tunnels Based on Digital Twin Technology

The construction of a new generation of smart cities puts forward higher requirements for the digitization and intelligence of subway tunnel engineering. Digital twin technology has shown great potential in high-fidelity modeling, virtual–real mapping, and decision support based on data analysis, but its research is still in its infancy. To this end, this paper first discusses in depth the inherent complexity and safety risks of subway tunnel construction and emphasizes the significant advantages of digital twin technology compared with traditional technology. Then, by summarizing the existing concepts, this paper proposes a specific explanation of DT applicable to subway tunnel engineering. In order to deeply analyze the potential of digital twin technology in subway tunnel engineering, this paper first conducts a bibliometric analysis and organizes the relevant research directions in recent years based on a visual map. Then, the application of DT in the field of subway tunnel engineering is discussed, including the modeling method of the subway digital twin, intelligent management of the construction process, safety guarantee, operation and maintenance, and resource optimization of traffic facilities in subway stations. Finally, this paper discusses the prospects and gaps of digital twin technology in theoretical and practical applications, aiming to promote the practical application of this technology in subway tunnel engineering. Through the summary and prospect of the existing research, this paper provides a valuable reference for future research directions and practical applications.