AN INTEGRATED DIGITAL TWIN AND CO-SIMULATION PLATFORM FOR ADVANCED DRIVER-IN-THE-LOOP RESEARCH
Wednesday 20 May 2026 14:40
The collaboration between the University of Salento and the Nardò Technical Center has led to the establishment of an advanced simulation laboratory, fully integrated with the digitalization of the proving ground tracks. This project presents an advanced co-simulation framework based on the Digital Twin of the Ecotekne campus, capable of orchestrating nearly one thousand actors interacting with an ego vehicle, while enabling dynamic management of the simulation scenario. The transition from 3D environments to 2D simulation software is fully automated through in-house developed tools. This infrastructure enables Driver-in-the-Loop studies and real-time monitoring of the driver’s biometric parameters via a custom-made sensorized garment developed by the university. This wearable device measures temperature, blood oxygenation, heart rate, and body dynamics using IMUs and deformation sensors. The integration of driving simulation, urban traffic, Digital Twins, and biometrics (fully orchestrated within the VI-grade framework) defines a novel research approach within the scientific landscape.
