The line between a simulation model and a Digital Twin is very thin as some might call a simulation model already a Digital Twin. However, a simulation model is not the same as a Digital Twin, but a Digital Twin cannot exist without a simulation model. A Digital Twin is the representation of an actual (operational) system, such as a factory, port or terminal, taking into account the current status of the system.

When do we consider a simulation model a Digital Twin?

A simulation model becomes a Digital Twin once used operationally and when combined with analytics technology. Our Digital Twin platform combines simulation and analytics software with cloud (or on premise) technology. If you want to discover how a Digital Twin can help you, please contact us.

The simulation engine receives real world data available in ERP-type systems. The data is automatically analyzed to discover trends, e.g. equipment slowing down or an increase in orders, which are used as input for the simulation model. The Digital Twin then predicts if the trend is causing future system anomalies and warns the user in case mitigating actions are required. Also, a Digital Twin will dynamically change as the state of the system changes, providing a real-time insight in the performance of the system and direct decision support.

Main usage of Digital Twins

• Scenario analysis, e.g. to study the impact of expansion plans;

• Understanding root causes and bottlenecks;

• Performance prediction;

• Decision support;

• Improve operational procedures;

• Contingency and mitigating action planning.