How Is Digital Technology Applied in GRC Curtain Wall Installation? — Qinglong Group's Digital Installation Technology Practice

Digital technology is profoundly transforming the way GRC curtain walls are installed, greatly improving installation precision and efficiency. Through 28 years of project practice, Qinglong Group has fully applied digital tools such as 3D scanning, BIM technology, drone inspection, and digital twins throughout the entire GRC curtain wall installation process, achieving a transformation and upgrade from "experience-driven" to "data-driven" operations.

3D scanning technology provides foundational data for precise installation. Before installation, laser scanning is performed on the main building structure to obtain 3D point cloud data of the actual structure, which is compared with the design model. In the Nanning Wuxiang China Resources MixC project, Qinglong Group's scans revealed structural deviations of up to 35mm at the largest points, which were eliminated by adjusting the hanging point positions of the GRC panels, avoiding on-site cutting. This "reverse engineering" method keeps installation errors within ±3mm, ensuring the overall flatness of the curtain wall.

BIM technology enables visual rehearsal of the installation process. Clash detection is carried out through BIM models to identify design conflicts in advance. In the Shenzhen Yirui Biotechnology Building project, the Qinglong team used BIM models to rehearse the installation sequence and optimize hoisting paths, shortening the installation schedule by 15%. Meanwhile, the BIM model generates a QR code for each panel; installers scan it with mobile devices to obtain the installation position, angle, and connection method, achieving "foolproof" installation and lowering the technical barrier.

Drone technology improves the safety and efficiency of high-altitude installation. In curtain wall installation for high-rise buildings, drones are used for aerial surveying and progress monitoring. In the 120,000-square-meter roofing project of the Hainan International Convention and Exhibition Center, Qinglong Group used drones to photograph the installation progress daily, automatically counting the number of installed panels through image recognition technology with an accuracy of 99%. Meanwhile, drones equipped with thermal imaging cameras inspected the quality of joint sealing to identify potential leakage points.

Digital twin technology enables full-process installation management. A digital twin model of the GRC curtain wall is established to map the status of the physical entity in real time. During the installation of the complex-shaped curtain wall at the Wuhan Han Show Theater, the digital twin system recorded the installation time, construction personnel, and quality inspection results for each panel, making quality fully traceable. After installation is completed, the digital twin model is converted into an operation and maintenance model, providing a data foundation for subsequent maintenance.