Digital Twins 17 min read
Digital Twins
Digital Twins
Connected digital representations of physical heritage assets — combining geometry, data and real-time sensor input.
A digital twin is a connected digital replica of a physical asset — combining geometric data (from photogrammetry, LiDAR or HBIM) with sensor data, material records and maintenance logs. For heritage buildings, digital twins support condition monitoring, conservation planning and public engagement.
What distinguishes a digital twin
A 3D model or HBIM is a static record. A digital twin is connected — updated with sensor data (crack gauges, moisture, temperature) and linked to maintenance records and conservation reports.
Heritage applications
Condition monitoring, virtual access for research and public engagement, predictive maintenance scheduling, and handover documentation for conservation projects.
Current technology readiness
Digital twins for heritage are technically feasible but operationally demanding. Most Indian heritage sites currently have neither the baseline HBIM model nor the sensor infrastructure to sustain one.
Frequently Asked Questions — Digital Twins
What is a heritage digital twin?
A heritage digital twin is a continuously updated digital model of a historic building — combining photogrammetric geometry, material records, condition data and sensor feeds. It differs from a static 3D model by remaining connected to the real asset over time.