Exploring Digital Twins with Quinn Evans
The integration of Digital Twin Technology in building renovation and restoration is transforming the industry, enhancing data accuracy, workflow efficiency, and long-term asset management. By creating precise digital replicas of structures, digital twins enable real-time updates, predictive maintenance, and seamless coordination across project teams.
A leading example of this innovation is the Michigan State Capitol Digital Twin Project by Quinn Evans. This initiative leveraged advanced modeling techniques to document existing conditions, optimize restoration efforts, and support long-term preservation. To explore the impact of digital twin technology on restoration, we engaged with experts from Quinn Evans, including Robert Fink (Director of Design Technology), Charles Thompson (Associate, Project Manager), and Kelly Haley (Project Architect). Their insights provide a deeper understanding of how technology is reshaping historical preservation.
With the team at Quinn Evans. Special guests including:
- Expert 1: Robert Fink – Director of Design Technology, specializing in digital workflows and computational tools for architectural innovation.
- Expert 2: Charles Thompson – Associate, Project Manager, with expertise in project coordination, historic preservation, and adaptive reuse. Leader in HBIM innovation
- Expert 3: Kelly Haley – Project Architect, focusing on integrating advanced design technologies into restoration and renovation projects.
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Bridging the Gap Between History and Technology
For many professionals in the field, the passion for restoration stems from a deep appreciation of historical architecture and a commitment to preserving cultural heritage. Our experts at Quinn Evans share their unique journeys into the field, highlighting the significance of craftsmanship, architectural storytelling, and adaptive reuse.
The Digital Twin Revelation
Having worked extensively in both restoration and emerging technologies, our experts discuss the pivotal moments when they realized digital twins could revolutionize historical preservation. The ability to merge computational precision with traditional craftsmanship has opened new possibilities in conservation.
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Historical Building Information Modeling (HBIM) & Workflow
What is HBIM?
Historical Building Information Modeling (HBIM) is a digital process tailored for the documentation and management of heritage structures. It involves creating a detailed 3D model that integrates historical data, materials, and structural elements.
The HBIM Workflow: From Start to Finish
A structured HBIM workflow ensures accuracy and efficiency in restoration projects. Key steps include:
- Data Collection: Laser scanning, photogrammetry, and archival research.
- Model Creation: Developing a digital twin incorporating historical context.
- Analysis & Simulation: Identifying structural weaknesses and restoration needs.
- Collaboration & Execution: Integrating findings into restoration efforts.
- Preservation & Management: Long-term digital asset maintenance for future interventions.
Optimizing HBIM Workflows
Our experts share insights on improving efficiency, from automating data extraction to enhancing software interoperability, ensuring seamless collaboration across disciplines.
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Merging Tradition with Technology
Aligning Computational Processes with Traditional Craftsmanship
A key challenge in digital preservation is ensuring computational workflows respect the artistry of traditional craftsmanship. Quinn Evans emphasizes a balanced approach where technology serves as a tool to enhance—not replace—historical integrity.
Balancing Technological Precision with Human Interpretation
While digital twins provide unmatched accuracy, human expertise remains essential in interpreting historical nuances. The team discusses strategies for maintaining authenticity while leveraging advanced tools.
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Challenges & Solutions in Digital Twin Adoption
Overcoming Documentation Gaps
Historical buildings often lack comprehensive as-built documentation. Quinn Evans navigates this challenge using a combination of advanced scanning, AI-driven reconstruction, and archival research.
Data Management & Long-Term Preservation
Transitioning from scan-to-BIM to a long-term digital asset requires robust data storage and security measures. The experts share best practices for mitigating data loss and ensuring sustainability.
Resolving Discrepancies Between Scanned Data and Historical Records
In some cases, discrepancies arise between scanned data and historical documentation. The team explains how they reconcile differences through detailed analysis and expert consultation.
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The Michigan State Capitol Digital Twin Project
One of Quinn Evans’ standout projects, the Michigan State Capitol Digital Twin, showcases the power of digital twins in historical preservation. This project aimed to create a comprehensive digital replica of the Capitol, enabling precise restoration planning and long-term maintenance.
What Makes This Project Unique?
The Michigan project stands out for its use of cutting-edge scanning technologies, collaborative workflow, and commitment to historical accuracy. It sets a benchmark for future digital preservation initiatives.
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The Future of Digital Preservation
The Untold Realities of Historical Preservation
What does the world often misunderstand about working with historical buildings? Our experts share lesser-known challenges and the depth of research, patience, and expertise required in restoration.
The Role of AI and Machine Learning in Preservation
Looking ahead, AI and machine learning are set to play a crucial role in automating analysis, predicting structural degradation, and enhancing decision-making in restoration.
Futuristic Technologies in Historical Conservation
If our experts could integrate one futuristic technology into their work today, what would it be? From AI-driven material analysis to VR-based historical reconstructions, they share their visionary ideas.
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Interview Questions:
- Can you give us a brief about what sparked your interest in the building restoration specifically?
- You’ve worked extensively in both restoration and emerging technologies. What was the moment that made you realize digital twins could transform historical preservation?
- As a project architect, how do you approach integrating technology like digital twins into projects without losing the essence of the historical structure?
- can you give general brief about what is HBIM?
- can you walk us through the workflow from start to the end for HBIM projects?
- What are the key steps in setting up an HBIM workflow for a historical site, and where do you see room for efficiency improvements?
- What’s your approach to ensuring computational processes align with traditional craftsmanship techniques?
- How do you manage the balance between technological precision and human interpretation when creating a digital twin of a historical structure?
- In general, considering all the different projects you have worked on, what were the key challenges faced? what was the Key Challenge?
- What were the hurdles in creating a digital twin for a building with limited as-built documentation?
- How Do You mitigate the risk of data loss when transitioning from scan-to-BIM to a long-term digital asset?
- Were there any major discrepancies between scanned data and historical records, and if yes, how were you able to resolve them?
- Can you walk us through the project of Michigan, like what is it, how it started, like everything?
- What makes the Michigan project stands out from all the other?
- What’s one thing about working with historical buildings that the world doesn’t understand—but you wish they did?
- How do you see AI and machine learning influencing the future of digital preservation?
- If you could integrate one futuristic technology into your work today, what would it be and why?
- As restoration and heritage specialist, what do you advise every young designer that is interested in pursuing same direction?
- So, Talking About the Future, 30 Years from Now What Is One Thing You Hope That Youve Achieved?
Link for podcast
G16_BIMSC_Theory Podcast_Hanan & Renuka.mp3
Conclusion
The integration of digital twin technology in building restoration is more than just a technical innovation—it’s a paradigm shift in how we preserve history. By blending computational precision with human expertise, firms like Quinn Evans are paving the way for a future where heritage conservation is smarter, more efficient, and deeply rooted in technological advancement.
