Digital twin-enabled robotics for smart tag deployment and sensing in confined space

Abstract

The deployment of smart sensors in confined spaces presents significant challenges due to limited visibility, environmental constraints, and communication interference. This study introduces a novel integration of digital twin technology with robotics to address these challenges, enabling precise and reliable sensor deployment in complex environments such as steel box girders. The proposed system leverages a digital twin framework for real-time simulation, calibration, and monitoring, ensuring spatial consistency between virtual and physical operations. Advanced calibration methods align the robotic arm with its 3D camera coordinates, enhancing deployment accuracy. Communication robustness is achieved by strategically prioritizing critical control and sensor signals, mitigating the impact of wireless interference in confined spaces. Additionally, the system automates the deployment of RFID-based smart sensors, incorporating 3D-printed protective casings for durability in harsh conditions. Experimental results demonstrate the system's effectiveness in overcoming spatial, visibility, and communication challenges, providing a scalable solution for structural health monitoring and other industrial applications. This study contributes a holistic and innovative robotics and digital twin integration framework in confined and complex environments.