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AI-powered knowledge graphs are transforming building management by turning fragmented operational data into structured layers that can be queried. When paired with 3D views of systems, they unlock a new era of intuitive facility operations. Knowledge graphs bring isolated systems together by mapping relationships between assets, spaces and data. 3D models add spatial intelligence, highlighting an asset’s location and the space around it. When combined, facility teams can see how systems interact, where equipment is located, and how real-world constraints shape decisions.
Below are several scenarios detailing how 3D modeling amplifies the value of Willow’s Knowledge Graph across HVAC, electrical systems, plumbing, and more.
Facilities benefit from 3D modeling with simplified HVAC troubleshooting. Picture a comfort issue in a healthcare facility. The Knowledge Graph might indicate that AHU12 is fed by Chilled Water Loop B, and it serves Operating Rooms 3–5. It has two upstream isolation valves and shares a return air path with AHU11. The 3D model augments this information with the exact location of the Chilled Water riser, how the piping branches to AHU12, and where access panels are and whether the valve is 12 feet up. When humidity drifts high in an OR, insights from the Knowledge Graph identify the reheat coil and Chilled Water valve as suspects. The 3D model shows the valve’s location. It’s tucked behind a large duct, requiring a lift and specific safety gear. The technician arrives prepared, saving time.
Here’s another example of the 3D model highlighting insights the Knowledge Graph alone can’t: Two AHUs serving adjacent ORs might be vertically stacked, meaning vibration in the upper unit could affect the lower one.
Visualizing an electrical system is complex. Conduits disappear into ceilings, feeders run through risers, and panel locations are often unintuitive. The Knowledge Graph can tell which panel feeds which equipment and which breakers supply which circuits. The 3D model shows the exact location of the panel, whether it’s behind a column or in an obstructed location. It details how conduits run through ceilings and cable trays and how far a technician must travel to reach a breaker during an emergency.
As an example, say that a VFD trips on AHU9. The Knowledge Graph identifies the breaker. The 3D model shows the breaker is behind a row of transformers, requiring technicians to carry PPE and access via a specific path. This improves safety and response time.
The Knowledge Graph can map relationships in plumbing systems to determine connections between fixtures and risers, and associate pumps with loops. The 3D model can further reveal the riser spanning multiple floors and the exact location of shutoff valves. This allows facility teams to infer how a leak on the 7th floor might cascade into the 6th floor corridor, and whether a valve is accessible without removing ceiling tiles.
As an example, a water leak is detected near a patient room. The Knowledge Graph identifies the correct isolation valve. The 3D model shows the valve is above a soffit requiring a ladder. The technician arrives prepared, minimizing water damage.
These operations require monitoring coverage, managing egress routes and suppression zones. The Knowledge Graph can map relationships between detectors and zones, as well as sprinklers and rooms. But the 3D model shows actual detector placement and coverage cones, and whether sprinklers are obstructed by new shelving.
For example, a renovation adds tall storage racks. The 3D model shows they obstruct sprinkler coverage, enabling proactive correction before a compliance issue arises.
Visualizing Access Points and switch locations is increasingly critical to building operations. The Knowledge Graph can map which AP serves which zone, as well as relationships between switches and devices. But the 3D model reveals AP placement relative to walls and obstructions and whether redundant switches are too close physically.
So when a WiFi dead zone appears in a conference room, the 3D model shows a new metal partition blocks the AP’s line of sight, providing facility teams with an instant diagnosis.
Selecting 3D Viewer in Willow allows navigation to a specific floor in a given building, with the option to display one or more layers. The architecture layer provides the base structure and can be augmented with views for mechanical, electrical, plumbing, fire safety, and more. As part of onboarding to Willow, this data is pulled from physical drawings and Revit files or BIM models and is used to construct a 3D visualization as seen below.
Data from the Knowledge Graph brings a specific asset into context. In this example, the user is able to see the twin name AHU-04 along with iconic representation for active insights and work orders. Users can filter further to components like Supply Fan Group or Cooling Coil, in context of visual elements. Clicking on the ticket icon takes the user to open work orders associated with this asset.
As a conversational companion experience, Willow Copilot makes it easy to prompt for troubleshooting steps or telemetry with data quality details. In this case, the user can prompt for current sensor values and get further indication on which ones have flat lined.
Together, these three elements create a comprehensive view of any asset or space. Data becomes actionable, enabling teams to make faster decisions with confidence.
Initial Day 0 onboarding starts with generating 3D models, mapping assets, and live telemetry. Over time, buildings evolve as spaces are renovated and equipment is replaced. The 3D representation and Knowledge Graph with twins and relationships must stay accurate across these Day N events.
Willow helps overcome these challenges by seamlessly propagating real-world changes. When a new wing is added to a building, the entire system reflects it. The 3D models are enhanced in sync with updates to the Knowledge Graph. New twins are incorporated with live telemetry, Skills are deployed and Insights extend to the new assets. Work Orders start flowing seamlessly as part of the same unified workflow, and Willow Copilot continues to operate in the expanded context of the building.
Facilities are becoming more complex and there is constant focus on operational efficiency. An AI powered Knowledge Graph combined with 3D models and the conversational assistance of Willow Copilot creates a unique experience. Building environments become easier to understand and faster to troubleshoot.