01 / GDT
Generic Digital Twins
Semantic modelling of heterogeneous entities and processes, a modular core for data ingestion and synchronisation, and common interfaces across application domains.
Interoperability · Abstraction · Data modelsRESEARCH PROJECT · STAR 2024 · JUNIOR PI GRANTS
SCULPT
Towards the next generation of intelligent Digital Twins.
A research programme investigating how modular, domain-independent Digital Twins can combine Generative AI and Multi-Agent Systems to model complex environments, explore new scenarios and support adaptive decision-making.
An interoperable research architecture
01Physical & abstract systemsReal-world data · entities · processes
02Generic Digital TwinSemantic model · synchronisation
03Generative AIWhat-if scenarios
04Multi-Agent SystemsCoordinated decisions
A research vision · not a deployed product
START DATE15 September 2026
FUNDED DURATION24 months
FUNDING PROGRAMMESTAR · Line 1
HOST INSTITUTIONFederico II · Naples
The research challenge
Beyond isolated, domain-specific twins
Digital Twin platforms often remain tied to one application domain, using heterogeneous data models and interfaces that are difficult to reuse. SCULPT explores a more general approach: a layered architecture with shared semantic representations and interoperable components.
The funded 2026–2028 start-up phase focuses on architectural design, core modules, initial integration of generative models and agents, and a proof-of-concept evaluation. The longer-term research ambition is broader, but is not presented here as already funded.
Research directions
Three foundations. One framework
The technical research combines semantic Digital Twin engineering, scenario generation and coordinated decision-making.
02 / GENAI
Generative intelligence
Exploration of generative models to produce plausible what-if scenarios, support dynamic simulations and help Digital Twins respond to changing environments.
LLMs · Scenario generation · Simulation03 / MAS
Multi-Agent Systems
Research into specialist agents, interaction protocols and orchestration strategies supporting collaborative reasoning and adaptive system behaviour.
Agent roles · Coordination · Decision support2026–2028 · Funded start-up phase
From research blueprint to early validation
Architecture
Define use cases, requirements and the modular system blueprint.
Prototype
Develop the first Generic Digital Twin core and experimental GenAI–agent integration.
Validation
Evaluate feasibility through a restricted pilot and initial performance indicators.
Research growth
Disseminate early findings and prepare subsequent competitive research proposals.
These activities describe planned project objectives, not results already achieved.
Research team & programme
Interdisciplinary research at Federico II
SCULPT brings together Computer Science, Software Engineering and Intelligent Systems expertise, building on M.O.D.A.L.’s research in Digital Twins, AI and data-driven modelling.
Meet the research group →PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATORFrancesco PiccialliDepartment of Mathematics and Applications “R. Caccioppoli”
SCIENTIFIC TEAMSergio Di Martino · Nicola MazzoccaDepartment of Electrical Engineering and Information Technology
FUNDINGProgramma STAR · Linea 1Junior Principal Investigator Grants · University of Naples Federico II, in partnership with Compagnia di San PaoloOfficial programme ↗
Interested in intelligent Digital Twins?
Explore SCULPT alongside the laboratory's related work in Generative AI and Digital Twin research.