What is Digital Twin?
A digital twin is a digital representation of a physical object, process, service or environment that behaves and looks like its counterpart in the real-world.
A digital twin can be a digital replica of an object in the physical world, such as a jet engine or wind farms, or even larger items such as buildings or even whole cities, alternatively digital twin technology can be used to replicate processes or runs simulations in order to collect data to predict how they will perform.
A digital twin is, in essence, a computer program that uses real world data to create simulations that can predict how a product or process will perform. The simulation is based on both the current condition of the asset and historical data. These programs can integrate the internet of things (Industry 4.0), artificial intelligence and software analytics to enhance the output. The use of internet of things (IOT) sensors allows for the transfer of real world data to create virtual representations in the digital realm.
With the advancement of machine learning and factors such as big data, these virtual models have become a staple in modern engineering to drive innovation and improve performance.
In short, creating one can allow the enhancement of strategic technology trends, prevent costly failures in physical objects and also, by using advanced analytical, monitoring and predictive capabilities, test processes and services.
