The Digital Twin

Grafik: Studio Deussen

SMART SPACE Hardenbergplatz as a virtual test site

Hardenbergplatz is one of the city's most dynamic traffic hubs, where pedestrians, cars, bicycles, and public transportation all meet in a small space. The digital twin, which is being developed in the pilot project with Studio Deussen, depicts this complex urban space immersively and in high resolution as a VR planning environment. This allows urban processes to be experienced individually and shaped participatively, regardless of location or time.

Modular structure

According to DIN SPEC 91357, a standard for digital urban twins, various modular and interoperable tools are integrated, which enable the isolated simulation and analysis of various spatial processes. These tools are:

  • a 3D asset pipeline, which allows for object related expansion of the model
  • AI-powered simulations, such as for pedestrian movements, as well as
  • Participation and collaboration tools that allow comments, annotations, or ideas to be left directly in the digital space via voice input.

To get an idea of what Hardenbergplatz looks like through VR glasses, watch this trailer:

By viewing the video, you agree that your data will be transmitted to Vimeo. For more information see data protection.

Format: video/unknown

Graphic: Studio Deussen

Use Case-based testing

Insights relevant to the creation and further development of the twin come from surveys of real pedestrian and traffic flows, which in turn can be simulated in various scenarios – without having to interfere with the real city. 3D representations of real objects or simplified volume bodies can be placed in the virtual world to simulate urban development measures.

Grafik: Studio Deussen

Scaling and transferability

The modular and standard-oriented digital twin can be transferred to other locations as a tool for interactive and participatory management and planning of urban areas. As a communication tool, it helps planners, administrative staff, and the public to find consens,discuss projects in a clear manner and make informed decisions. The SMART SPACE Hardenbergplatz pilot project makes an important contribution to the development of the city of Berlin's digital twin strategy.