A detailed digital copy of a building, factory or physical space can help researchers understand how it works without having to test every change in the real world. High-fidelity digital twins take this a step further by using precise data to create detailed digital versions of physical environments, which can then be studied, analysed and tested using AI. This technology is opening up new possibilities in areas such as engineering, manufacturing, infrastructure and spatial computing.
Bringing this technology into an academic research setting, the International Institute of Information Technology Hyderabad (IIIT Hyderabad) and Hexagon R&D India are collaborating to establish the Hexagon Digital Twin Centre of Excellence (CoE) at IIIT Hyderabad. The centre will focus on applied research, education and industry collaboration across computer vision, spatial computing and digital twins, with artificial intelligence (AI) forming a key part of the work.
Students, faculty and researchers at IIIT Hyderabad will get access to Hexagon’s Leica BLK360 G2 precision imaging laser scanner along with the relevant software package. The scanner will support the creation of high-fidelity digital twins and give researchers a tool to work on projects involving spatial computing and computer vision.
Beyond access to the equipment, the collaboration will give students and researchers a chance to work with industry-grade technology and real-world datasets, develop prototypes and proofs of concept, and see how AI, computer vision and spatial computing can be used to address real industry challenges.
The initiative builds on Hexagon’s global academic engagements in deep tech and foundational sciences, while also supporting a stronger focus on AI research in India.
Commenting on the collaboration, Prof. Sandeep K. Shukla, Director, IIIT Hyderabad, said, “This collaboration with Hexagon will give our researchers and students access to advanced technologies and real-world spatial data, creating opportunities to take research from the lab to practical applications. We look forward to building a strong research and innovation ecosystem through this Centre of Excellence.”
Meanwhile, Navaneet Mishra, Senior Vice President and Head of Hexagon’s R&D India, said, “The ability to capture, understand and digitally represent the physical world is opening up new possibilities across industries. Through this Lab, students and researchers will have access to Hexagon’s technologies and real-world challenges.”
Nora Hollenstein, VP, AI Hub at Hexagon AB, added, “Hexagon has research collaborations across the globe, and I am excited to bring it to India now. We aim to create an environment where ideas can be tested, and further deep research can help with creating real-world solutions.”
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