Digital twins represent a major innovation in the management and optimization of transport systems, and their use is a proactive response to the challenges of decarbonization in the UK. These virtual models allow researchers and engineers to simulate, analyze, and predict the behavior of transport infrastructure while identifying opportunities to reduce their carbon footprint. By integrating real-time data, digital twins facilitate the transition to more sustainable and efficient transport systems, while supporting the country’s environmental goals. This approach is part of a broader desire to achieve green mobility and address the challenges of climate change.
Digital Twins: A Revolution for Decarbonization
Digital twins are virtual replicas of the physical world. Through sensors connected to infrastructures like roads and railways, these replicas collect real-time data. They allow for the analysis and testing of various scenarios to optimize transport systems.
An Ambitious Collaborative Project
The TransiT Hub, led by Heriot-Watt University and the University of Glasgow, is benefiting from a £46 million investment from EPSRC (Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council) and 67 partners. These partnerships cover various sectors such as energy, transport, and technology.
Benefits of Digital Twins for Transport
The use of digital twins can offer numerous benefits. For example, by updating digital road signs to indicate the shortest routes to avoid traffic jams, carbon emissions are reduced. Virtual testing also allows for the evaluation of futuristic transport systems such as electric roads and alternative fuels.
Optimization of Logistics Systems
By testing new systems more quickly, the most cost-effective solutions to achieve net-zero carbon emissions can be identified. This allows logistics companies to determine the routes, types of vehicles, and travel schedules that are most sustainable.
Customization of Travel Choices
Travelers will also benefit from personalized digital twins, capable of providing near-real-time travel options based on their individual needs and budget. These systems will take into account the reliability of transport services and weather forecasts.
Synergy Between Academic, Industrial, and Government Sectors
The TransiT Hub represents one of the largest transport consortiums. By collaborating with various sectors, it aims to create a model of transformational change for other industries and to study decision-making scenarios.
Specialized Research Areas
Each partner university in TransiT focuses on specific research areas:
- Heriot-Watt: Logistics and freight
- University of Glasgow: Digital twins and cyber-physical systems
- University of Leeds: Development of decarbonization policies
- University of Birmingham: Railways
- Cranfield University: Aviation
- UCL: Maritime
- University of Cambridge: Road freight
- Durham University: Public transport engineering
List of Researchers and Their Areas
| University | Specialization |
| Heriot-Watt | Logistics and freight |
| University of Glasgow | Digital twins and cyber-physical systems |
| University of Leeds | Development of decarbonization policies |
| University of Birmingham | Railways |
| Cranfield University | Aviation |
| UCL | Maritime |
| University of Cambridge | Road freight |
| Durham University | Public transport engineering |
