The Rise of Digital Twins in the Age of Industry 4.0 and IoT

Abstract

Industrial and operational paradigms are being transformed by disruptive technologies in the era of Industry 4.0 and Internet of Things (IoT). Virtual representations of physical systems, operable via real-time monitoring, simulation and control with digital twins (initially proposed as just another conceptual framework in 2002) are another family. In this paper we investigate the maturing of digital twins from its origins to architecture and applications: imporant accelerators for predictive maintenance, operational efficiency/optimisation & strategic decision making. While the digital twin presents significant opportunities for sectors ranging from healthcare and manufacturing to urban planning, there are still significant challenges surrounding data integration, security, scalability and standard in this emerging space. We need to solve these issues — using AI/ML, edge and other technologies in order enable value propositions of digital twins. Finally, the paper finishes by looking to the future digital twins in IoT/ big data era as future building blocks of innovation.