Insights on Digital Twins and Robotics from Cognite and Equinor

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From Cognite Youtube

At Impact 2024, Stein Danielsen of Cognite and Anette Jacobsen of Equinor led a session on the integration of real-time digital twins and AI-powered robotics in industrial settings. The session, called “Revolutionizing Industry: The Impact of Real-Time Digital Twins and AI Robotics,” underscored how these transformative technologies are reshaping operations, optimizing processes, and setting the stage for a safer and more efficient industrial future.

Key Trends Driving Innovation

Stein Danielsen opened the session by identifying four transformative trends:

  1. Advanced AI Models: The emergence of large language and vision-language models has enabled unprecedented data integration. These models read documents, interpret 3D models, and extract actionable insights, creating a dynamic knowledge graph that powers real-time digital twins.

  2. Autonomous Data Capture: Robots equipped with these AI models autonomously scan and update digital twins, ensuring that the virtual replicas remain evergreen and provide accurate, real-time insights.

  3. Humanoid Robotics: Danielsen explained the rise of human-like robots, driven by the need to operate in human-centric environments and following the success of robots designed like dogs. With advancements in robotics training via AI models like ChatGPT, robots can now mimic human actions with minimal instruction.

  4. AI Agents: Virtual agents equipped with robotic skills are automating complex operational hierarchies, from basic tasks like valve closures to high-level decision-making.

Real-World Applications at Equinor

Anette Jacobsen brought the trends to life by sharing Equinor's groundbreaking robotics projects. With more than 15 years of experience leading robotic pilots, Jacobsen highlighted the importance of clear leadership and systematic problem-solving in robotics integration.

Key Equinor innovations include:

  • Robotic Inspections and Maintenance: Robots like the Marcus and SPOT handle dangerous tasks — such as confined-space inspections, sandblasting, and welding — reducing human risk and increasing uptime.

  • Remote Operations: In one instance, robots repaired a steam leak on a refinery flare without requiring a production shutdown, saving an estimated $20 million.

  • Water Sampling Automation: Equinor's robots autonomously dock and collect water samples, operating continuously to ensure precision and efficiency.

Jacobsen emphasized that collaboration, rigorous planning, and adherence to standards, such as EX safety certifications for hazardous environments, are critical to success.

The Broader Impact

Both speakers agreed that the convergence of digital twins and AI robotics is not only streamlining industrial processes but also redefining safety, cost-efficiency, and environmental impact. Danielsen hinted at a future where AI agents and robotics are ubiquitous, both at industrial sites and in our homes.

The session concluded with a powerful message: the time to act is now. By embracing these technologies, industries can leapfrog traditional limitations, paving the way for unparalleled innovation and efficiency.

Want more? Watch the recording of the full session.

Discover the latest insights on digital twins, from real-world applications and 2025 project updates to strategies and beyond. Mark your calendar for June 16-18 and join us at the Industrial Digital Twin Forum, co-located with the 2025 Energy Drone & Robotics Summit.