Imec and TNO have unveiled a digital 3D replica of the city of Antwerp that can be used for smart city purposes. The replica is called ‘digital twin.’ The replica combines data on noise pollution with real-time sensor information for air quality and traffic, plus computer models. It offers a current and predictive view of the situation in the city, so that the impact of planned measures can be simulated and tested.

The digital twin was created based of the ‘Urban Strategy’ simulation platform of Dutch research institute TNO, upon which Imec is building a new interactive interface and for which it is supplying sensor data to enable real-time linking and enrichment of models. Partners in the project include Department for Mobility and Public Works of the Flemish Government, TomTom and mobile software provider PTV.