Nature, essence, and classification of digital twins

Aim. The work aimed to study the features inherent in digital twins (hereinafter referred to as DT) within the analysis of the “digital twin” concept, and to highlight the twin market development trends.

Objectives. The work seeks to conduct a comparative analysis regarding the concept of “digital twin” and develop a classification of digital twins, as well as to identify the development trends of the digital twin market in the context of Industry 4.0.

Methods. The study theoretical basis consisted of scientific publications in Russia and other countries, regulatory documents, reports of international industrial and consulting companies, as well as data from analytical agencies. The author used methods of system analysis, as well as structural and functional approach.

Results. The global digital twin market is growing annually, and the average annual growth rate reaches 39%. The analysis showed differences in the interpretation of the definition of “digital twin” both among manufacturing companies and among representatives of scientific schools, which is due to the still unsettled terminology, the relatively recent release of regulatory documents (ISO, GOST), and the difference in the description of the internal components of the twin technology among manufacturers of this digital technology. The article proposes a classification of digital twins based on various types of digital twins, product, functions, end-use customers, and components. The work characterizes the trends in the further development of the digital twin market in the context of the digital transformation of Industry 4.0.

Conclusions. In the digital economy realities, the trend for the implementation of digital twin technology in manufacturing cycles is gaining more and more popularity and is a necessity for achieving a competitive advantage, while ensuring increased productivity through greater automation and the release of resources. The digital twin market is growing rapidly every year, which implies that it is important not only to see trends in a timely manner in order to lengthen the lead over competitors, but also to have a strategic vision and understanding of the technology. The presented classifications can be useful for digital transformation managers in companies implementing digital twins in their production cycles.

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