Why is it in the news?
- TheDepartment of Telecommunications (DoT) recently unveiled the ‘Sangam: Digital Twin’ initiative.
Digital Twin Technology
· Digital Twin technology creates virtual replicas of physical assets such as buildings, infrastructure, machinery, etc. · These digital replicas are connected to their physical counterparts through sensors and other data sources, allowing for real-time monitoring and analysis. · By replicating the behaviour of physical assets, Digital Twin technology enables predictive maintenance, optimization of operations, and testing of various scenarios virtually. Applications Across Industries · In manufacturing, Digital Twin technology can optimize production processes by identifying bottlenecks, predicting equipment failures, and testing new designs before implementation. · In smart cities, it can help monitor the health of infrastructure, manage traffic flow by analysing real-time data, and optimize energy consumption by simulating different scenarios. · In healthcare, Digital Twin technology enables personalized patient care through virtual simulations, real-time monitoring of medical equipment, and even virtual surgery simulations for training purposes. · In logistics and supply chain management, it facilitates real-time tracking of goods, optimization of delivery routes based on traffic and weather conditions, and prediction of potential disruptions in the supply chain. |
Aims of ‘Sangam: Digital Twin’ Initiative
- The initiative aims to demonstrate the practical implementation of innovative infrastructure planning solutions using Digital Twin technology.
- It seeks to develop a model framework for facilitating faster and more effective collaboration among various stakeholders involved in infrastructure projects.
- By providing a blueprint for scaling and replicating successful strategies, the initiative aims to pave the way for future infrastructure advancements in India.
Stages of Implementation
- The implementation of the initiative is divided into two stages:
- The first stage is the exploratory phase, where the focus is on creative exploration to understand the potential applications and benefits of Digital Twin technology.
- The second stage involves the practical demonstration of specific use cases to generate a future blueprint for scaling and replicating successful strategies in infrastructure projects.
Significance of ‘Sangam: Digital Twin’
- ‘Sangam: Digital Twin’ represents a collaborative effort to reshape infrastructure planning and design by leveraging cutting-edge technologies such as 5G, IoT, AI, AR/VR, and Digital Twin.
- It aims to break silos and engage in a whole-of-nation approach by bringing together public entities, infrastructure planners, tech giants, startups, and academia.
- By bridging the gap between conceptualization and realization, the initiative aims to accelerate infrastructure advancements in India and establish the country as a leader in digital infrastructure and innovation.
Example of Digital Twin Technology
· A private company has utilized drone scanners to create a digital twin of Hyderabad’s Qutub Shahi tombs, dating back to the 16th century. · The site comprises seven tombs honouring the former kings of Golconda, showcasing a unique blend of Persian, Pathan, and Hindu architectural styles. · Constructed primarily with grey granite, the tombs feature intricate stucco ornamentation, reflecting the cultural diversity of the region. · The Qutub Shahi tombs hold historical significance as they represent the only location worldwide where an entire dynasty is interred in one place. · The creation of a digital twin allows for the preservation and virtual exploration of this heritage site, providing valuable insights into its architecture and historical context. |