Digital Twin Technology E-Book
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- Herausgeber: John Wiley & Sons
- Kategorie: Wissenschaft und neue Technologien
- Sprache: Englisch
DIGITAL TWIN TECHNOLOGY The book lucidly explains the fundamentals of digital twin technology along with its applications and various industrial real-world examples. Digital twin basically means a replicated model of any object or product in digital form. A digital twin has many advantages as it remains connected with the original object or product it is replicating and receives real-time data. Therefore, the obstacles and issues that could be encountered in a product or object can be known before their actual happening which helps to prevent errors and major losses which otherwise might have been incurred. The various capabilities of digital twin technology make it a powerful tool that can be used to effectively boost various sectors of the healthcare, automotive, and construction industries, among others. Although this technology has been making its way into various sectors, it has not yet received the kind of exposure necessary to increase awareness of its potential in these industries. Therefore, it is critical that a better understanding of digital twin technology is acquired to facilitate growth and to have it implemented in the various sectors so that transformation can be ushered in. Therefore, this book was designed to be a useful resource for those who want to become well acquainted with digital twin technology. Audience Engineers, researchers, and advanced students in information technology, computer science, and electronics, as well as IT specialists and professionals in various industries such as healthcare, automotive, and transportation.
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Veröffentlichungsjahr: 2022
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Table of Contents
Cover
Series Page
Title Page
Copyright Page
Preface
1 Overview of Digital Twin
1.1 A Simplistic Introduction to Digital Twin
1.2 Basic Definition and Explanation of What is Digital Twin
1.3 The History of Digital Twin
1.4 Working
1.5 Features
1.6 Advantages of Digital Twin
1.7 Applications
1.8 A Simple Example of Digital Twin Application
1.9 Digital Twin Technology and the Metaverse
1.10 Challenges
1.11 Conclusion
References
2 Introduction, History, and Concept of Digital Twin
2.1 Introduction
2.2 History of Digital Twin
2.3 Concept of Digital Twin
2.4 Working Principle
2.5 Characteristics of Digital Twin
2.6 Advantages
2.7 Limitations
2.8 Example of Digital Twin Application
2.9 Conclusion
References
3 An Insight to Digital Twin
3.1 Introduction
3.2 Understanding Digital Twin
3.3 Digital Twin History
3.4 Essential Aspects From Working Perspectives of Digital Twin
3.5 How Does a Digital Twin Work?
3.6 Insights to Digital Twin Technology Concept
3.7 Types of Digital Twin
3.8 Traits of Digital Twin
3.9 Value of Digital Twin
3.10 Advantages of Digital Twin
3.11 Real-World Examples of Use of Digital Twin
3.12 Conclusion
References
4 Digital Twin Solution Architecture
4.1 Introduction
4.2 Previous Work
4.3 Use Cases
4.4 Architecture Considerations
4.5 Understanding the Physical Object
4.6 Digital Twin and IoT
4.7 Digital Twin Solution Architecture
4.8 Database Considerations
4.9 Messaging
4.10 Interfaces
4.11 User Experience
4.12 Cyber Security
4.13 Use Case Coverage
4.14 Future Direction and Trends
4.15 Conclusion
References
5 Role of Digital Twin Technology in Medical Sector—Toward Ensuring Safe Healthcare
5.1 Introduction to Digital Twin
5.2 Generic Applications of Digital Twin
5.3 Digital Twin Applications in Medical Field
5.4 Ongoing and Future Applications of Digital Twin in Healthcare Sector
5.5 Conclusion
Acknowledgments
References
6 Digital Twin as a Revamping Tool for Construction Industry
6.1 Introduction
6.2 Introduction to Digital Twin
6.3 Overview of Digital Twin in Construction
6.4 The Perks of Digital Twin
6.5 The Evolution of Digital Twin
6.6 Application of Digital Twin Technology in Construction Industry
6.7 Digital Twins Application for Construction Working Personnel Safety
6.8 Digital Twin Applications in Smart City Construction
6.9 Discussion
6.10 Conclusion
References
7 Digital Twin Applications and Challenges in Healthcare
7.1 Introduction
7.2 Digital Twin
7.3 Applications of Digital Twin
7.4 Challenges with Digital Twin
7.5 Digital Twin in Healthcare
7.6 Digital Twin Challenges in Healthcare
7.7 Conclusion
References
8 Monitoring Structural Health Using Digital Twin
8.1 Introduction
8.2 Structural Health Monitoring Systems (SHMS)
8.3 Sensor Technology, Digital Twin (DT) and Structural Health Monitoring Systems (SHMS)
8.4 Conclusion
References
9 Role and Advantages of Digital Twin in Oil and Gas Industry
9.1 Introduction
9.2 Digital Twin
9.3 Evolution of Digital Twin Technology
9.4 Various Digital Twins that Can Be Built
9.5 Advantage of Digital Twin
9.6 Applications of Digital Twin
9.7 Characteristics of Digital Twin
9.8 Digital Twin in Oil and Gas Industry
9.9 Role of Digital Twin in the Various Areas of Oil and Gas Industry
9.10 The Advantages of Digital Twin in the Oil and Gas Industry
9.11 Conclusion
References
10 Digital Twin in Smart Cities: Application and Benefits
10.1 Introduction
10.2 Introduction of Digital Twin in Smart Cities
10.3 Applications of Digital Twin in Smart Cities
10.4 Conclusion
References
11 Digital Twin in Pharmaceutical Industry
11.1 Introduction
11.2 What is Digital Twin?
11.3 Digital Twin in the Pharmaceutical Industry
11.4 Digital Twin Applications in Pharmaceutical Industry
11.5 Examples of Use of Digital Twin in Pharmaceutical Industry
11.6 Advantages of Digital Twin in the Pharmaceutical Industry
11.7 Digital Twin in the Pharmaceutical Industry as a Game-Changer
11.8 Conclusion
References
12 Different Applications and Importance of Digital Twin
12.1 Introduction
12.2 History of Digital Twin
12.3 Applications of Digital Twin
12.4 Importance of Digital Twin
12.5 Challenges
12.6 Conclusion
References
13 Digital Twin in Development of Products
13.1 Introduction
13.2 Digital Twin
13.3 Different Aspects of an Organization and Digital Twin in Development of Products in Organizations
13.4 Implications of Digital Twin in Development of Products in Organizations
13.5 Advantages
13.6 Conclusion
References
14 Possibilities with Digital Twin
14.1 Introduction
14.2 What is Digital Twin Technology?
14.3 Possibilities With Digital Twin in Aviation Sector
14.4 Possibilities With Digital Twin in Automotive Industry
14.5 How Can Digital Twin Help in Improving Supply Chain Management?
14.6 Discussion
14.7 Conclusion
References
15 Digital Twin: Pros and Cons
15.1 Introduction
15.2 Introduction to Digital Twin
15.3 Pros of Digital Twin
15.4 Cons of Digital Twin
15.5 Application Wise Pros of Digital Twin
15.6 Conclusion
References
Index
End User License Agreement
List of Illustrations
Chapter 1
Figure 1.1 Journey of digital twin technology.
Chapter 4
Figure 4.1 Example context diagram.
Figure 4.2 Internet of Things and digital twin.
Figure 4.3 Digital twin solution architecture.
Figure 4.4 Process model example.
Figure 4.5 Basic data flow through the digital twin.
Figure 4.6 Data flow through digital twin applications.
Chapter 5
Figure 5.1 Characteristics of digital twin.
Figure 5.2 Different modules of the digital twin in healthcare.
Chapter 9
Figure 9.1 Evolution of digital twin over the years.
Guide
Cover Page
Series Page
Title Page
Copyright Page
Preface
Table of Contents
Begin Reading
Index
WILEY END USER LICENSE AGREEMENT
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Scrivener Publishing100 Cummings Center, Suite 541JBeverly, MA 01915-6106
Publishers at ScrivenerMartin Scrivener ([email protected])Phillip Carmical ([email protected])
Digital Twin Technology
Fundamentals and Applications
Edited by
Manisha Vohra
This edition first published 2023 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc., 111 River Street, Hoboken, NJ 07030, USA and Scrivener Publishing LLC, 100 Cummings Center, Suite 541J, Beverly, MA 01915, USA© 2023 Scrivener Publishing LLCFor more information about Scrivener publications please visit www.scrivenerpublishing.com.
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Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data
ISBN 978-1-119-84220-0
Cover image: Pixabay. ComCover design by Russell Richardson
Preface
The various capabilities of digital twin technology make it a powerful tool that can be used to effectively boost different sectors of the healthcare, automotive, and construction industries among others. Although this technology has been making its way into various sectors, unfortunately it has yet to receive the kind of exposure necessary to increase awareness of its potential in these industries. Therefore, a better understanding of digital twin technology is needed to promote its use in different sectors to help them grow. When properly implemented in industrial sectors, such as healthcare, automotive, etc., it will not only greatly benefit them, but will also bring about a tremendous positive transformation in them. Therefore, this book was designed to be a useful resource for those who want to become well acquainted with digital twin technology. Briefly stated, it explains the fundamentals of digital twin along with its applications and various other aspects. A brief description of the information covered in each chapter follows.
– Chapter 1: Digital twin technology is opening doors to various possibilities in different sectors which will prove to be very fruitful. This chapter provides an overview of digital twin, including explaining what it is, a discussion of how this technology began, how it works, its features, etc.
– Chapter 2: Digital twin has entered the limelight in recent years. Even though this powerful technology has only gained notability recently, it dates back to the 1960s. In this chapter, digital twin is introduced. In addition to its history, its concept is also explained.
– Chapter 3: In this modern world, technology is used everywhere in almost each sector. Among the many technologies already in use, with many more still to come, digital twin is gaining popularity. In this chapter, insight into digital twin technology is provided. This technology is explained in detail along with different aspects of digital twin, including how it works, its types, traits and advantages, etc. Some real examples of the application of digital twin are also given.
– Chapter 4: A digital twin simulates the state and behavior of a physical object in real time. This work primarily focuses on digital twin solution architecture and how the digital twin can be designed to deliver common use cases. In this chapter, the authors first review how the physical object can be connected to the digital twin through the internet of things (IoT) and then show a layered view of the digital twin solution architecture. Digital twin solution architecture is explained from various viewpoints, including data stores, user experience, integration with external applications, application programming interface (API) and cybersecurity. Concepts involved in digital twin solution architecture are illustrated through examples from the world of discrete manufacturing.
– Chapter 5: In today’s scenario, digital technology is gaining prominence in different sectors like business, healthcare, education, security, aerospace, construction, automotive, etc. This chapter discusses the novel digital twin technology. It presents generic applications of the digital twin and the role of digital twin technology in the medical sector.
– Chapter 6: Construction is a broad term that refers to the formation or creation of structures. The construction industry is involved in the installation, preservation and renovation of buildings and other immovable structures, as well as that of roadways, amenities, etc., which form the fundamental components of structures necessary for the structure’s complete development and usage. This chapter discusses the role of digital twin technology in the construction industry. In the context of construction-related work, it provides an understanding of how digital twin technology can be used as a game-changing technology that could transform the construction industry. It also analyzes different perspectives of the role of digital twin in this industry.
– Chapter 7: Because digital twin is an efficient technology, various sectors can benefit from its evolution. In this chapter, a literature survey is presented on the different applications of digital twin found in the healthcare sector. A real-life example of its healthcare application is also briefly discussed and explained, along with the challenges digital twin faces in the healthcare sector.
– Chapter 8: Digital twin (DT) as a scientific paradigm offers extraordinary supremacy and dexterity both to the physical objects/systems and its digital counterparts against the backdrop of an Industry 4.0 environment. In this chapter, an attempt is made to explain the applicability of DT in structural health monitoring systems (SHMS). The DT paradigm and its related application in SHMS are discussed in this chapter, which offer useful insights in relation to damage identification in infrastructure (such as dams, bridges, etc.) and their structural health monitoring dimensions.
– Chapter 9: The emergence of a high level of focus on utilizing simulation via digital twin to assist operational choices should be welcomed by simulation and automation experts. However, it is believed that critical concerns like usability, maintainability, sustainability, effectiveness and all other aspects should be seen and evaluated if the entire potential of digital twins is to be achieved. This chapter discusses digital twin technology and explains its role in relation to the oil and gas industry by conducting a literature survey.
– Chapter 10: Digital twin is swiftly making its way into numerous applications and is evolving at a fast pace. Any technology is basically used to simplify things, make work easier, provide as many advantages as possible, etc. In short, each technology works towards helping the application in which it is applied. Digital twin technology also does the same. In this chapter, the application of digital twin in smart cities is discussed. The different ways in which the digital twin can help in the development of smart cities are presented. Its benefits are also discussed.
– Chapter 11: Digital twin technology can be useful in the pharmaceutical industry. Since it is one of the most important industries directly connected to healthcare, this chapter explains the application of digital twin in the pharmaceutical industry with examples. The advantages of its use in this industry are also discussed.
– Chapter 12: A digital twin is a virtual copy of an entity. It is a duplicate copy of a product, process or a system that is updated from real-time data that simply bridges the gap between the physical world and digital arena. Digital twin is not only used to understand the present but also helps to predict the future. In this chapter, different digital twin applications are explained and their importance is also stated.
– Chapter 13: Digital twin technology can be used in the development of products in organizations. This chapter discusses and analyzes its role in relation to the development of these products, along with the implications of its use. Since digital twin technology is a digital representation of physical products or processes, it facilitates the decision-making process in product development. It enables cost reduction and maximization of the benefits of the products in the competitive environment of organizations. The digital twin is an ideal technology as it allows obtaining all the information on a product or production process, thereby gaining great insights which can be applied to the physical world product or process on which the best decisions can be based. As illustrated in this chapter, the implication of adopting digital twin technology to develop products in organizations is found to be encouraging.
– Chapter 14: Digital twin technology is one of the fastest emerging concepts. Since digital twins are virtual replicas of real-world objects, they are extremely useful for predicting future problems in real-world objects or products. Digital twin technology can be used in many applications in different sectors, including aerospace, construction, smart city development, etc. In this chapter, after the digital twin technology concept is introduced, different possibilities afforded by digital twin in the automotive, aviation and supply chain sectors are discussed.
– Chapter 15: In this fast-moving world, the use of technology is of great importance. Therefore, more new technologies are continuously being sought that will be of great help in different sectors. Be it any sector like health, education, automotive, aviation, etc., it is a known fact that new technologies can benefit the whole sector. Digital twin is a technology that can match the expectations of different sectors at a high level. In this chapter, the pros and cons of using digital twin technology are presented along with an example of the real-world application of digital twin technology.
In closing, the editor would sincerely like to thank Martin Scrivener of Scrivener Publishing and all the chapter contributors for making this book possible. I hope this book will be a great resource for those who want to become well acquainted with digital twin.
Manisha Vohra
October 2022
1Overview of Digital Twin
Manisha Vohra
Independent Researcher, India
Abstract
Digital twin is a technology which is opening doors to various possibilities in different sectors which will shall prove to be very fruitful. Digital twin basically means a replicated digital model of any device or product. It has great abilities which can benefit various sectors when applied in those sectors. This technology is growing with great pace. It has some really amazing and useful advantages. This chapter is all about the basics of digital twin which includes understanding what it is, discussion regarding the beginning of this technology, its working, features, etc. In this chapter an entire overview of digital twin is provided.
Keywords: Digital twin, digital twin technology, digital model, technology, mirror worlds, virtual environment, National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)
1.1 A Simplistic Introduction to Digital Twin
Digital twin, a technology named in two words is a technology with great abilities. It is a technology which is very powerful. It is powerful enough to replicate real world devices, products and processes virtually. Digital twin works in a virtual environment. Digital twin in simple words is a virtual representation of real world devices, products or process. This is one basic way of how digital twin can be defined. Another basic and brief definition and explanation of what is digital twin will be stated further on in the chapter.
Digital twin can run simulations, it can predict the possible errors which could turn up or occur in a device, product or process.
In today’s world, virtual environment plays an important role in various sectors. For example, in healthcare sector, use of telemedicine. In use of telemedicine option, consultation via video conferencing is done in a virtual environment. In education sector, curriculum classes are also nowadays carried out in a virtual environment via video conferencing. Likewise, in different sectors, virtual environment is playing an important role and is being very helpful.
Digital twin is also a technology which works in a virtual environment. Its utilization in different sectors like global industry, healthcare, engineering, etc. can be the key to a whole lot of advantages and benefits for those sectors.
Digital twin does not remain static in nature. It changes in accordance to the changes in the real object it is replicating. The input of the real-time data it can receive from the original object which it is replicating is truly helpful. It will update itself in accordance with changes in the object. Whenever there is any change in the original object, that particular change will occur in the digital twin model as well. This in itself is a huge plus point.
To bring some innovation in any new product or device, one might try to experiment while working on it. Even while working on an existing product, for coming up with a new version of it as there are chances for its improvement and betterment, one might experiment, alter and bring changes to it in this case as well. Even after careful intervention during the attempt of trying to experiment with all necessary measures and precautions taken be it in a new product’s case or existing one, there can be multiple scenarios as resultants.
This move of trying to experiment could either go right, benefitting the product hugely or could have some adverse effects which could damage or hamper the product early or in the later stages of the product lifecycle. Well, in the case, that the experiment is successful then there’s no problem but if something turns out wrong then it could damage or hamper the product in the early or later stages of the product lifecycle as mentioned above. Here, one needs to be having something like a technology which could in advance inform regarding the issues, hurdles that the product could probably face in any stage of its lifecycle, thus preventing it from occurrence in reality. For such instances and situations, digital twin could be the best fit option.
It can provide prediction in advance on what issues could arise in a product. So before they come in reality they can be predicted by using digital twin. Through this kind of prediction, digital twin can help to prevent any issues or hurdles from arising and occurring not just in a product but be it a system, process, etc. Hence, it can be rightly told that digital twin has the capability to keep problems at bay.
The concept of digital twin is decades old, despite this fact, its real impact has only come into being in recent years [7]. Currently, industry 4.0 is a popular term to describe the imminent changes of the industry landscape, particularly in the production and manufacturing industry of the developed world [13]. The design of a manufacturing system is not simple. It is a complex and critical activity [4].
Digital twin technology is nowadays being developed and commercialized to optimize several manufacturing processes [2]. Digital twin is now getting recognition of being a part of industry 4.0 roadmap [5]. A manufacturing digital twin offers a great opportunity. It offers the opportunity to simulate and optimize the production system [8]. The growing adoption of cyber-physical system (CPS), internet of things (IoT), big data analytics, and cloud computing in manufacturing sector has paved the way for low cost and systematic implementation of digital twin [11].
There are different aspects driving the future of manufacturing and one of those is digital twin [19]. It is receiving a great deal of interest from manufacturers who make advanced products that have all the characteristics of complex systems. However, the success of the digital twin model will depend on a factor which is value, the value it creates for both the manufacturers and the users of their products [3]. A concept for the composition of a database and guidelines proposal for the implementation of the digital twin in production systems in small and medium-sized enterprises is presented by the authors in paper [17]. Digital twin can truly impact manufacturing greatly.
It can also play a major role in overall cost savings in the entire manufacturing budget of an object, product, system, etc. as the manufacturing budget mostly always has provision for some issues. When manufacturing budget is planned, at that time mostly always a provision is kept for remanufacturing of the some of the objects or products, etc. which might be required to be remanufactured due to certain issues as well there is provision in the budget in case of wastage occurring during manufacturing process due to some error. When errors and issues can be prevented prior to their arrival in reality, it will result in the overall cost saving in the entire manufacturing cost of an object, product or system, etc. which is being manufactured. Also, downtime can be prevented and predictive maintenance can be carried out using digital twin. Not just cost savings will happen due then to digital twin but also it will help in meeting deadlines fixed for manufacturing of objects or products.
Whenever due to any faults if remanufacturing is required then it will not only increase the overall cost involved in manufacturing but additional time will also be required in remanufacturing. If digital twin can prevent issues, errors, downtime and also predictive maintenance can be carried out digital twin then then manufacturing can be completed on time and it can thus meet its allotted deadline without requiring additional time.
One of the greatest plus points of this technology is that, it can present a replicate of the original product, system, etc. in a digital format. Such is the functionality of digital twin. Hence, digital twin which is created, be it of anything, like product, system, etc. will be in digital form and it can be viewed and from any remote location. Digital twin allows to monitor the original device, product, etc.
There is no compulsion or restriction of being present in person in front of the device or product to view or monitor it. This point about the digital twin makes it not only just advantageous or beneficial but also simplifies the work of the ones who will be working with this technology as and when required.
Nowadays many things have gone digital and are carried out online like work, study, etc. Any technology which allows remote monitoring of work is a plus point of that particular technology and it is highly beneficial for the users of that technology.
Along with various other important and key factors which paved way for development and introduction of digital twin technology, directly or indirectly the widespread and accessibility of digitalization has also been important for digital twin.
Had digitalization not been much developed, wide spread and accessible, it would affect the progress of digital twin technology during its attempt in reaching out to different sectors quickly. The widespread and accessibility of digitalization has also thus been indirectly important for digital twin technology.
To provide digital services in a product service system is it necessary to understand few things such as service ecosystem, service platform and value co-creation [15]. There is an increasing interest in adapting digital twin to get autonomous maintenance [9]. Digital twins are expected to enrich the existent asset information system [20]. Digital twin is now a salient and emerging trend in many applications which includes the construction sector as well. The construction sector hosts various applications for digital twin use [1, 18]. Seen as a basis of digital twin is linking of sensor data with city model [14]. A digital twin city can simulate designs based on the digital model similar to a real city [12].
The combination of the digital twins with trusted data sharing technologies (such as blockchain) could pave way to a new wave in supply chain studies [22]. Integrated digital twin and blockchain framework makes all data transactions traceable is what was found by authors in paper [10]. Digital twin can be helpful in different sector’s various applications, for example, the digital twin can be helpful in manufacturing context. As per traditional definition, manufacturing is defined as a process which turns materials that are raw, into physical products [16]. Digital twin may be applied with great success in manufacturing contexts for gaining benefits in terms of optimization, maintenance and operations monitoring [6]. In different important sectors such as healthcare, digital twin can be of great help. The list of some different sectors where digital twin can be used is discussed later on in the chapter. While there has been a recent growth of interest in the digital twin, a variety of definitions employed across industry and academia remain [21].
Digital twin is a beneficial technology with great features. Its features are stated further on it the chapter. Overall, digital twin technology can be considered as a technology which will evolve and currently also it is evolving.
Digital twin is having great potential. With the help of its functionality, capabilities and advantages, it can ease out many difficulties of different sectors when applied for usage. Having briefly introduced digital twin, the basic definition and explanation of what is digital twin is stated below.
1.2 Basic Definition and Explanation of What is Digital Twin
Another basic definition of digital twin is as follows. Digital twin can be defined as a digital representation of any real world product, system or process. It replicates the original product, system or process in digital form. It lays out digital representation of any real world product, system or process.
Digital twin can showcase changes of the original product, system, etc. because it is linked or connected with it and receives real-time data. Such is the functionality and capability of digital twin. Digital twin accounts and includes the details as well of whatever it is replicating. Say for example a product’s digital twin is being created. The digital twin will also have the different details that the original product consists of. It also replicates the different details of the original product. The behavior of the product is replicated by the digital twin as well.
In the year 2002, Dr. Michael Grieves had spoken about digital twin at a conference. In fact, he had given a presentation at this conference which was held at Michigan University and presented the digital twin concept but it was presented as “Conceptual Ideal for PLM”. At that time, digital twin had not received its name as digital twin. However, the concept presented as “Conceptual Ideal for PLM” was consisting of all elements of digital. These elements are: real space, virtual space, the link for data flow from real space to virtual space, the link for information flow from virtual space to real space and virtual sub-spaces [23].
Back then in 2002, Dr. Michael Grieves was the one who had publicly introduced digital twin. When the history of digital twin is discussed, one will notice that this particular instance was a significant step towards the evolution of digital twin. This instance is well described further on in the chapter while discussing the history of digital twin.
There are two types of digital twin. They are Digital Twin Prototype (DTP) and Digital Twin Instance (DTI).
Digital Twin Prototype (DTP):
This type of Digital Twin describes the prototypical physical artifact.
Digital Twin Instance (DTI):
This type of Digital Twin describes a specific corresponding physical product that an individual Digital Twin remains linked to throughout the life of that physical product.
Digital Twins are operated on in a Digital Twin Environment (DTE). Below is the definition of DTE.
Digital Twin Environment (DTE): This is an integrated, multi-domain physics application space for operating on Digital Twins for a variety of purposes that would include:
Predictive
Interrogative
Predictive: Here the digital twin would be used for predicting purpose. It will predict the future behavior as well as performance of the physical product [23].
Interrogative: This would apply to DTI’s. Digital Twin Instances could be interrogated for the current and past histories [23].
DTPs should exist for all sophisticated manufactured products, while DTIs exist only for products where it is important to have information about that product throughout its life. Airplanes, rockets, manufacturing floor equipment, and even automobiles have or will have DTIs. Paper clips will not.
Digital Twin Aggregate (DTA) – this type of Digital Twin is the aggregation of all the DTIs [3].
Talking about the digital twin model throughout the lifecycle, the reference to PLM made in 2002 conference indicated that this particular conceptual model was intended and is still currently intended to be a non-static model which means the model was and is intended to be dynamic one such that it changes throughout the system’s lifecycle. Initially at the beginning period of its lifecycle, the system emerges virtually, after that it in the production phase, it takes physical form, then it continues through its operational life and eventually is retired and disposed of [23].
Digital twin has a great capability that it can give an estimate or predict the hurdles and complications that could be encountered in the product or system prior to them turning up in reality. One can infer through this what measures need to be taken to avoid any problems and losses.
1.3 The History of Digital Twin
When it comes to the history of digital twin, the year 2002 and the name Michael Grieves are the ones which are quite talked about. Back then in 2002, Michael Grieves during Society of Manufacturing Engineers conference in Michigan University, introduced the digital twin model. This explains why the year 2002 and the name Michael Grieves are most talked about when it comes to the history of digital twin.
So in the year 2002, when the digital twin model got introduced by Dr. Michael Grieves, it got introduced as a concept for Product Lifecycle Management (PLM). A name was given to the model but later on, the name was changed. It was actually originally named the Mirrored Spaces Model (MSM) but later changed to the Information Mirroring Model. Then finally it was referred to as the Digital Twin, a name that John Vickers of National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) had coined [3].
Prior to this, the concept of digital twins had been put forward by David Gelernter. This was also an important aspect in the journey of digital twin. David Gelernter had introduced the concept of digital twin through his book titled “Mirror Worlds” which was published in the year 1991. However, in actuality, NASA was the one who initially brought this concept in 1960’s and put it to application during their Apollo 13 mission in 1970.
They had themselves physically developed a twin system of their spacecraft. Through the spacecraft which was replicated at the ground level by NASA, they could work and try different approaches for the spacecraft which sent for a mission.
It indeed proved to be very helpful for NASA. In the year 2010, John Vickers from NASA in roadmap report coined the term Digital Twin and this is how this technology got its name. If one sees the journey of digital twin after getting its name, till the present time then it can be noted that during this period digital twin has evolved quickly and in fact is continuing to evolve.
It looks all set to rise further and looking at the way it is making its mark currently and going by its progress, it seems that in the same way it will continue making its mark in the future as well. The digital twin technology journey has been progressive. Its history has witnessed some key contributions and instances which led to its progress.
NASA has played a huge role in the journey of digital twin technology as they were the ones who had for the first time worked on it. So they contributed majorly towards this technology. Without their contribution towards this technology, its journey would have not reached till where it has reached in the present.
Digital twin technology’s name was also coined by a person from NASA who is John Vickers. So, altogether, NASA has been a huge contributor towards this technology and John Vickers contribution towards this technology’s journey has also been great and quite important.
David Gelernter’s contribution towards the journey of digital twin has also been very important as he had introduced this technology’s concept through his book “Mirror Worlds” which was published in the year 1991.
Introducing this technology and talking about it publicly for the first time was done by Dr. Michael Grieves which also contributed quite a lot towards the journey of digital twin. So the history of digital twin technology has rightly witnessed different key contributions and instances which led to its progress. Figure 1.1 below represents the journey of digital twin.
Figure 1.1 Journey of digital twin technology.
1.4 Working
The working of digital twin is systematic. It is very easy to understand its basic working process which is explained as follows.
Whenever a digital twin of an existing product is created, it works and changes as per the input it receives from the real product. When there is change in the real product, it will be immediately and automatically conveyed to the digital twin which will change accordingly because the real product will be connected or linked with digital twin which ensures that there can be real-time data transmission.
Sensors are deployed on the real product to get real-time data. A replicate of the original product in virtual form is created i.e. a digital copy of the original product will be created.
The digital copy is linked with real product to enable real-time data transmission from real product to the digital copy. Linking them together is important. Data transmission in real-time will allow digital twin to update and change in accordance with the changes occurring in the real product. So whatever changes are occurring in the real product, those same changes will occur in the digital twin model also. Digital twin can be utilized to run different simulations. It can give information and important insights about the product. Digital twin has the ability to estimate or predict regarding the possible problems or issues that can be encountered in the real product which will help in preventing them. Certain fix can be found for the predicted problems or issues to help prevent them before they come in reality. This is the overall basic working of digital twin.
Thus using digital twin the possible problems or issues can be prevented or stopped before they come in reality in the real product which saves a lot of trouble.
If the above explained basic working of digital twin is observed then it can be noted that how systematically digital twin works. It is not at all complex and very easy to understand. Digital twin has its own share of advantages which it can offer its users and serve them better. It also enables them to gain benefits from this technology and make the most of this technology.
Based on the application purpose and the requirement, digital twin of parts, product, system and process can be made known as parts or component twins, product twins, system twins and process twins respectively. Let’s understand them all one by one as follows:
Parts twins
Engineers can easily understand the mechanical, electrical and physical characteristics of a part using virtual representations of the individual components.
Product twins
Product twins are nothing but digital models of different components that ultimately forms a product being brought together at one place. The reason different components are brought together is to see how they are working with each other.
Also, how environment can affect the components that when brought together ultimately forms a product, can be known using product twins. Product twins lets one know how these components will interact, thereby generating the performance data which one can analyze and utilize it for their future course of work.
System twins
A system comprises of various products. For making a system, wide range of products are required. System Twins are the ones which gives insight on how different products which come together to form a system work.
On the basis of what system twins data suggests, if need be for improvement, then different solutions can be sought which can result in betterment of the system functionality and its efficiency overall.
Process twins
Process twins are the ones which can let you know and understand the process of manufacturing. At each juncture in which manner each and every particular system involved in the process of manufacturing, functions in presence of all other systems brought together can be known through process twins.
So basically, in other words, all the systems involved in the process of manufacturing are brought together and then process twins can tell how they all function at each juncture in the presence of all other systems.
Through data obtained and analyzed from process twins, any alterations required for smooth manufacturing can be done, thus allowing to prevent errors in future and thus increasing the efficiency.
1.5 Features
Digital twin is a technology which is opening doors to various possibilities in different sectors which will shall prove to be very fruitful. Below are some of the features of digital twin. Digital twin basically means a replicate digital model of any device or product.
1.5.1 Replication of Each and Every Aspect of the Original Device or Product
Digital twin actually replicates not just the looks but also each and every aspect of any device or product.
1.5.2 Helps in Product Lifecycle Management
Digital twin can be used throughout product lifecycle to provide entire information about it which makes product lifecycle management easier. Any issues in a product that could be encountered in any stage of the product lifecycle which will affect the product could be known prior to their occurrence which will help in taking necessary measures to avoid the errors and prevent major losses. With digital twin, the product can be then managed efficiently throughout its lifecycle. Thus it helps in product lifecycle management.
1.5.3 Digital Twin can Prevent Downtime
Digital twin can inform about issues prior to their arrival in real product and can thus prevent downtime.
1.6 Advantages of Digital Twin
Written and explained below are some advantages of digital twin.
1.6.1 Digital Twin is Helpful in Preventing Issues or Errors in the Actual Object, Product or Process
Digital twin has the ability to estimate or predict errors or issues that could be encountered in the actual object, product or process.
If any error or issue that could be encountered is known prior than it has happened or occurred in reality then it can be prevented. This is why and this is how digital twin is helpful in prevention of issues or errors.
1.6.2 Helps in Well Utilization of Resources
When a product’s digital twin is created, it can predict any kind of complication, issue or error that could be encountered in the product which helps in avoiding it and allows for its better lifecycle management and thus ultimately resulting in well utilization of all resources involved in product development. When any kind of complication, issue or error is encountered in a product, object, etc. then it could even result in leaving the product unusable. The product and all resources involved in the development of it would be wasted in such a situation. However, digital twin can help in avoiding such a situation.
With digital twins ability to predict errors or issues which can be encountered in a product, object, etc. will help in avoiding them and will promote better lifecycle management of it and automatically avoid wastage of resources, thus encouraging proper and well utilization of resources.
1.6.3 Keeping Vigilance of the Actual Object, Product or Process Through Digital Twin is Possible
Through digital twin technology, keeping vigilance of the actual object, product or process being replicated is not only just possible but also quite easy as its vigilance can be kept from any location. Irrespective of the location, its vigilance can be done remotely through digital twin.
1.6.4 Helps in Efficient Handling and Managing of Objects, Device, Equipment, etc.
The digital twin technology will predict and inform any issues or hurdles in any object, device, equipment, etc. in advance that allows for carrying out predictive maintenance of it and also prevents any downtime. This leads to efficient handling and managing of object, device, equipment, etc. So, digital twin actually helps in efficient handling and managing of device, equipment, etc.
1.6.5 Reduction in Overall Cost of Manufacturing of Objects, Products, etc.
The cost involved in manufacturing of objects, products, etc. when due to any complication or issues they have to be remanufactured leads to increase in overall cost of manufacturing. However this increase in overall manufacturing cost can be reduced using digital twin technology.
Digital twin can estimate about the complication or issues which could be faced in manufacturing of objects, products, etc., thus helping in preventing it which means the requirement of remanufacturing might be completely erased. This will on its own result in reduction of overall cost of manufacturing of objects, products, etc.
1.7 Applications
Digital twin owing to its functioning, its capabilities and advantages, can be used in various different sectors. Some of them are as follows:
Construction sector
Automotive sector
Oil and gas sector
Healthcare sector
Pharmaceutical sector, etc.
1.8 A Simple Example of Digital Twin Application
Consider the following example stating and discussing application of digital twin and what benefits it can provide.
If supposing for a product or object, digital twin technology is used then it can be useful in product lifecycle management and can be useful in other ways as well. For example, consider that for a product manufactured, there is a digital twin of it, then it can predict its performance and possible future errors which will allow for preventive measures to be undertaken in time to prevent those errors. It will enable the improvement of the product and help in development of it. Tesla, Inc. also uses digital twin. Every car it sells out, has its digital twin. So all data from sensors on the car is taken each day and analyzed. Useful insights are gained and accordingly to avoid errors and to improve performance, these insights are used to prepare software updates for their cars which are sent to their users. All the insights can be used for preparing the similar future products as well. Digital twin can thus proficiently help and provide different benefits as understood from the example.
1.9 Digital Twin Technology and the Metaverse
The term metaverse is gaining wide popularity lately. This comes naturally as Facebook is now officially renamed to Meta and its founder Mark Zuckerberg has announced that the company will be focusing on metaverse. Likewise, other large companies like Microsoft are also working on metaverse. Digital twin technology in context of the metaverse is also being talked about widely. Metaverse is a term coined by Neal Stephenson in his science-fiction novel entitled “Snow Crash”. Metaverse means a virtual world or an online world. In other words, it can be even called as a simulated virtual environment. Here, users will have their own digital avatars through which they can have interaction with others, visit shopping mall, attend an office meeting, meet friends, etc. If the word metaverse is broken down then we get two different words that are meta and verse. “Meta” means beyond whereas “verse” is referring to the universe. Metaverse is also considered as the future of the Internet.
Digital twin is an essential block or element of the metaverse. Digital twin digitally represents the physical world. Digital twin is connected to the real-world object and receives real-time data. Digital twin can run simulations. It can predict possible problems that could occur in an object and can provide insight and information regarding the object. Likewise, as discussed in the chapter, there are various capabilities of digital twin, and due to its capabilities, it is an essential block or element of the metaverse. Digital twin can be used in different sectors. There might be various benefits digital twin could provide in metaverse which might be known better when it is more developed.
Metaverse could also bring various opportunities for different sectors but there are some concerns and challenges as well. For example, ensuring the privacy and security of data, the risk of people spending more time in virtual world leading to decrease in their real-world interaction with others, etc. However, as the metaverse is in its nascent stage, it is yet to be seen what will be the future of metaverse and how different companies will put it to utilization. Whatever the future is, digital twin will continue to remain an essential block or element of metaverse.
Digital twin technology currently faces certain challenges and some of them are discussed and explained below.
1.10 Challenges
There are different challenges for the digital twin technology. Some of them are as follows.
1.10.1 Careful Handling of Different Factors Involved in Digital Twin
The handling of different factors involved in digital twin can be challenging. First and foremost one of the most essential things for digital twin is data. The entire setup of sensors, the link for connecting the real space with virtual space and for the link for flow of information from virtual space to real space and virtual sub-spaces, are all very sensitive things to handle and take care of. Faulty sensor or breaking of the link with digital twin can be a serious hamper in the working of the digital twin.
Right from the start till the end everything has to be as per the requirement, then only the digital twin can be created and can work successfully. Thus handling everything efficiently is a challenge.
1.10.2 Expertise Required
Expertise will be required for working on creation of digital twin to taking care of whole functioning and managing everything related to it. Anyone who is not having the required expertise for working and looking after all the things related to digital twin if works on it then there are chances of things going wrong or not as per expectation due to any mistake in work caused by lack of expertise and knowledge. Hence when working on digital twin, anyone who has complete digital twin expertise and knowledge is required.
