The work of the archivist combines documentary precision with silent physical risks: forced postures when handling boxes, overexertion from repetitive loads, exposure to dust and mold, and eye strain from screens. Added to this is the stress of conservation deadlines. A digital twin of the physical archive makes it possible to model these variables to redesign processes and protect the professional before an injury occurs.
3D scanning and IoT sensors for ergonomic simulation 🛠️
The creation of the twin begins with LiDAR scanning of shelves, aisles, and furniture, combined with photogrammetry of documents and boxes. On this virtual replica, IoT sensors are integrated to monitor temperature, relative humidity, and mold particles in real time. Workflow simulation allows calculating dust exposure times during handling, identifying angles of forced postures when reaching high shelves, and predicting accumulated fatigue. The computational model can suggest relocations of documentary collections to reduce movements and adjust task rotation schedules, minimizing overexertion and cuts from deteriorated boxes.
Prevention over cure: the archive as an intelligent environment 🧠
Beyond efficiency, this approach places occupational health at the center of workspace design. By visualizing risk in the digital twin, the archive manager can redesign shelf layouts, install localized ventilation systems in critical mold areas, and schedule active breaks based on simulated load. The result is not only a better-preserved archive but an environment that cares for those who keep it alive.
How applying a digital twin of the archive can anticipate ergonomic risks to staff before they materialize into injuries
(PS: My digital twin is right now in a meeting, while I am here modeling. So technically, I am in two places at once.)