What is a digital twin?
A digital twin is a virtual replica of a physical object. Here at Rise we create digital twins (3D models) of objects as intricate as artworks and as large as landscapes.
How we create digital twins
To create digital twins we capture images (often in their 1,000s) from various angles around the object or site and then process these images using photogrammetry techniques to create the digital twins.
Photogrammetry is the process of identifying common points across the images to calculate their exact position in 3D space, which is then generated into a 3D mesh. Texture data from the original images is then mapped onto the mesh to create a highly realistic 3D model of the real-world object.
It's all in the detail
The quality of a digital twin is dependent on the quality of the equipment, images and photogrammetry expertise used to create it.
- The higher the quality of the camera and studio equipment - the higher quality the images.
- The more experienced the person capturing the images - the higher the quality of the data set.
- The higher the skill level of the photogrammetry expertise processing the data set - the higher level of accuracy and detail of the digital twin.
To achieve the most accurate replication with the highest level of detail we use professional grade cameras, aerial UAV drones and LiDAR scanners. This equipment is able to capture the highest resolution imagery and our in-house photogrammetry experts then process these data sets into the most accurate replicas - which is why our twins are used for museum artworks and inspecting infrastructure.
Below is a comparison of two twins - one we created using iPhone camera images and one created using Rise studio equipment - which clearly demonstrates how the quality of equipment significantly impacts that accuracy and detail of a digital twin.
What are digital twins used for?
Our digital twins are used by our clients to:
- Inspect large infrastructure.
- Document and digitally preserve fragile artefacts and sites.
- Create virtual tours of exhibitions to engage global audiences.
- Replicate a remote rock art site for a documentary.
- Develop cultural heritage management plans.
To see more of our digital twins check out our Sketchfab, or get in touch!
