The Digital Twin Tackling Urban Challenges with Models, Spatial Analysis and Numerical Simulations in Immersive Virtual Environments

Abstract

For the built environment's transformation we are confronted with complex dynamics connected to economic, ecologic and demographic change (Czerkauer-Yamu et al., 2013; Yamu, 2014). In general, cities are complex systems being a ``heterogeneous mosaic'' of a variety of cultures and functions, characterised by diverging perceptions and interests (ibid). The juxtaposed perceptions and interests in relation to ongoing spatial processes of change create a particularly complex situation. Thus, for planning processes we are in need of approaches that are able to cope not only with the urban complexity but also allow for participatory processes to empower citizens. This paper presents the approach of using Digital Twins in virtual reality (VR) for civic engagement in urban planning, enriched with quantitative and qualitative empirical data as one promising approach to tackle not only the complexity of cities but also involve citizens in the planning process.