Through the evolution of Asset Management and systems complexity has increased therefore our approach to managing them needs to change. Additionally, companies are challenged to develop more efficient and sustainable products to meet the growing demands of consumers and, as a result, product design and manufacture has rapidly evolved in recent times.
A digital twin is a virtual model of a physical object or system that spans its lifecycle and brings in learning and experiences from real world processes to update the digital twin model. Engineers and operators can view the digital twin to understand, in real time, how the asset or system is performing in the real world. Analysis of the data collected from the digital twin can also support decision-making based on predictions of how the asset or system will perform in the future.
Furthermore, the operational data provides insight for manufacturers to optimise the product design, improve manufacturing processes, and deliver sustainable products at a reduced cost.
Digital twinning technology is being used increasingly in manufacturing and engineering for a variety of purposes, including testing and optimising physical systems during design, allowing remote monitoring and control of physical assets through automation systems and simulated testing.