| dc.description.abstract | The "digital twin" concept has gained
prominence in architecture and construction for
maintaining accurate digital representations of
physical structures. There is no generalised digital
twin system which can be applicable for all purposes,
thus the digital twin development is context and site
specific. Building Information Modeling
proves
its
invaluable for performance modeling, behavior
analysis, and preventive maintenance of historic sites,
yet
implementation complexities demand
customized approaches. In Sri Lanka, digital twin
adoption lags due to uncertainties in construction,
operation, utility, and limited research on their
cultural heritage impacts. Modernization threatens
colonial street architecture, intensifying conservation
urgencies. Digital twins offer detailed virtual models
capturing architectural nuances and historical
contexts, crucial for UNESCO World Heritage sites
facing modernization and climate change threats. The
UN's 2030 Sustainable Development Goals prioritize
cultural
and
environmental
sustainability,
underscoring the need for effective conservation
strategies. This study integrates a literature review,
two case studies with a detailed alogirthm for the the
creation of a digital twin, and professional interviews
for identifying challenges and strategies for digital
twin implementation. Case studies of the De Soysa
building and Rangiri Dambulla Caves illustrate their
potential respectively: the former preserving legacy
amid urban development, the latter optimizing
preservation through microclimatic analysis. Project
specific digital twins are pivotal for safeguarding
cultural identity and managing heritage properties.
Challenges in digital twin use for heritage
preservation include data capture, costs, integration,
and ethical considerations. Solutions entail advanced
technologies, funding strategies, standard data
formats, cloud storage, and ethical data handling to
enhance management and preservation. | en_US |
