Research and expertise
I specialize in developing advanced methodologies for bridge digital twin construction, integrating 3D point cloud processing, automated geometric modeling, and finite element analysis. My research focuses on semi-automated frameworks that transform raw LiDAR and photogrammetry data into functional geometric digital twins for structural analysis of bridges. My work combines traditional geometric algorithms with AI-driven approaches to achieve high-accuracy segmentation and parametric modeling. My research bridges the gap between raw scanning data and actionable engineering models, contributing to infrastructure management through data-driven approaches.
Current research activity
- Research on Semi-Auto Methodology for Establishing Data-Driven Geometric Digital Twins for Structural Analysis of Bridges (PhD thesis, under review)
- Development of BridgeNET neural network for point cloud completion and reconstruction
- Integration of reality capture technology with BIM for digital twin analysis model construction
- Advanced finite element model updating using geometric data from point clouds
- Unity 3D-based real-time visualization systems for bridge monitoring
- Research on Key Technologies for Digital Twin Analysis Model Construction and Service Performance Evaluation, CCCC Second Harbor Engineering Co., Ltd.
- BIM consulting for infrastructure management platform development
- Digital transformation consulting for airport infrastructure projects
Recently completed research projects
- Research on Application of Key Technologies for Digital Twin Analysis Model Construction, Bai Jusi Bridge Project (2022-2025)
- BIM-based infrastructure management platform development for Capital Medical University Stomatological Hospital (2023-2024)
- Digital transformation and BIM digital delivery consulting for Hohhot Airport Company (2023-2024)
- BIM Consulting for FAW-Volkswagen Group Tianjin new factory construction project management (2017-2020)
- Suizi Highway operation BIM+GIS+Reality Capture system development, Sichuan (2017-2018)
- Key Technology Research on Integrating BIM and IoT for Large Bridge Construction Quality Control System, Xinjiang Highway No.575 (2016-2017)
Consultancies
- Digital transformation and BIM digital delivery consulting, Hohhot Airport Company
- BIM consulting for construction management, Siping Center Hospital (2014-2015)
- BIM consulting and modeling for Herbalife Renovation Project, Nanjing (2013-2014)
Recent publications
- Ying, C., El-Hamalawi, A., Chen, S., et al. (2025). Digital Reconstruction and Geometrical Model Updating of Large-scale Bridge Structures: A case study of Baijusi Bridge. Smart Infrastructure and Constructio (Accepted)
- Ying, C., Chen, L., Hu, K., Zhang, Y., et al. (2024). Developing a Construction Digital Twin for Bridges: A Case Study of Construction Control of Long-Span Rigid Skeleton Arch Bridge. Handbook of Digital Twins 1st Edition, CRC Press
- Ying, C., Chen, L., El-Hamalawi, A., Hu, K., et al. (2022). A novel hybrid approach for alignment modelling of virtual trial assembly of steel box girder bridge. EG-ICE-2022
- Hosamo, H., Ying, C., Nie, R. (2023). A Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Nanosensors for Structural Health Monitoring in Bridge Maintenance. Applied Sciences, 13(20), 11149
- Han, D., Ying, C., Tian, Z., et al. (2024). Yolov8s-SNC: An Improved Safety Helmet-Wearing Detection Algorithm Based on YOLOv8. Buildings, 14(12), 38-83
Teaching
I contribute to learning and teaching activities across civil engineering and construction management programmes through research supervision and practical applications of digital twin technologies, including:
Postgraduate
- Doctoral research supervision in digital twin methodologies
- Advanced point cloud processing techniques
- BIM and reality capture technology integration
Profile
I am a Doctoral Researcher at Loughborough University. My expertise is in digital twin technologies for bridge infrastructure. My career spans both academic research and industrial applications, combining theoretical advancement with practical engineering solutions. As senior researcher and engineer in the industry, I have successfully led multiple R&D projects worth significant funding.
Professional affiliations
- Senior Engineer (Professor-Level), certified by Liaoning Province Department of Science and Technology, China
External activities
- Reviewer for Engineering Structures journal (2022-2024)
- Reviewer for Structures journal (2023)
- Technical consultant for major infrastructure projects
- International conference presentations on digital twin technologies
Key collaborators
My research and enterprise activities are conducted with a range of academic and stakeholder partners, including:
- CCCC Second Harbor Engineering Co., Ltd. (Baijusi Bridge Project)
- Capital Medical University (infrastructure management platform project)
- Hohhot Airport Company (digital transformation consultation project)