In recent years, the “digital twin” concept has grown in popularity due to its enormous potential and seemingly endless possible uses. Here, we explain what a digital twin is, where the idea came from, and how many industries are already reaping the benefits of digital twin technology.
A digital twin is an exact virtual representation or simulation of a physical object or system. The object itself can be anything: an engine, a car, a machine, even an entire building. But the digital twin is much more than just a picture or model on a screen. It is an exact counterpart, constantly updated throughout the entire lifecycle of the thing it represents – sensors on the physical object collect information in real time, such as engine temperature, maintenance status or exact location, and update the virtual model accordingly. This means that anyone can look at the digital twin to check up on the real-life object, at any time, and from anywhere. For asset-intensive industries, like infrastructure or manufacturing, this is groundbreaking.
“Today, I can have people simultaneously and instantaneously looking at the same thing, and when I make a change, everybody sees it.” Dr. Michael Grieves
Space exploration presented many new challenges for asset management. How does one maintain or repair a system when it’s physically impossible to access it? How do we resolve problems and keep people safe when they are further away from home than anyone has ever been before? Physical “twins” – real-life working models of systems or assets – had been used by NASA since the 1960s in response to these challenges. The physical models and simulators played a crucial role in the Apollo 13 mission, one of the most famous rescue missions of all time. When oxygen tanks exploded early in the flight, duplicate systems on the ground enabled mission controllers to simulate conditions on the spacecraft so they could test and perfect solutions before instructing the astronauts. Thanks to this early version of digital twin technology, the crew of the ill-fated spacecraft made it back to earth safely. However, the concept of a “digital twin” was first introduced by Dr. Michael Grieves in 2002 as part of his research on lifecycle management. His idea was ahead of its time, as technology was not yet powerful enough to achieve a comprehensive digital twin. But with the advent of IoT, implementing digital twin technology is not only possible, but has even become cost-effective.
Besides aerospace, the possible uses for digital twin technology are almost endless. We’ll explore a few of our favorites here.Manufacturing: Unexpected failures or outages of manufacturing equipment can be dangerous, time-consuming and expensive to fix. For large, complex manufacturing systems, trained technicians are not always available at short notice, leading to longer downtimes, reduced productivity and greater revenue loss. Minimizing downtime in manufacturing is therefore pivotal to a company’s bottom line. More importantly, when operating heavy machinery, every accident can potentially be fatal - reducing workplace accidents to the absolute minimum must be top priority. Digital twin technology can help companies significantly reduce accidents and unplanned downtime. By testing different scenarios in the digital twin, engineers can determine how systems will perform under different conditions and avoid unexpected failures. Maintenance schedules can also be saved in the digital twin, so preventive maintenance is carried out on time to keep everything running smoothly and prevent dangerous workplace accidents. In the long term, the data collected can be used to show patterns and identify ways to speed up processes, optimize personnel planning and even reduce emissions.Real estate: How do you sell a property that hasn’t even been built yet? With a digital twin, of course! Accurate digital models of new building projects present many benefits for both the property developer and the potential buyer. Buyers can take an online tour of their future property without even having to leave their homes or view multiple properties in one showroom rather than having to spend entire days rushing from one viewing to the next. Hybrid showrooms add value by taking the stress out of property viewings, creating instead a relaxed, inspiring atmosphere where the properties can really come to life. The digital twin also allows potential buyers to get a more complete idea of the property – light levels at different times of day, for example – without having to attend multiple viewings. And because digital twins can be accessed from anywhere in the world, buyers looking to expand their portfolio internationally can save time and money by viewing a realistic twin of the property without having to travel.
Smart city: Creating a digital twin of an entire city is a huge undertaking – but it can be done, and the results can be astounding. Digital twins can be used to improve the lives of a city’s inhabitants, like in the case of Singapore’s ambitious project Virtual Singapore. The dynamic 3D model has been used to improve telecom network coverage, analyze traffic flows, track carbon emissions, decide where to install solar panels, and, most importantly, to keep its citizens safe – city officials can simulate emergency situations in the twin and use these insights to prepare for real-life emergencies.Digital twins can also be used to visualize and optimize complex processes, like at the Port of Rotterdam, where digital twin technology is being implemented to manage logistics chains and improve sustainability. And Helsinki’s Virtual Helsinki project is pioneering virtual twin technology to change the face of tourism – using VR glasses, “visitors” can tour the city, see the sights, and even go shopping.
As digital experts, we’re always happy to answer any questions you might have, or to provide information and advice on how digital twin technology can benefit your company. Get in touch or book a demo!