What is a digital twin?
A real-time, virtual representation
Digital twins are real-time, virtual representations of objects, processes, and systems. While digital twins can represent purely digital things, they most frequently serve as a bridge between the physical and digital domains. For example, a digital twin could provide a digital view of the operations of a factory, communications network, or the flow of packages through a logistics system.
The virtual model can be used to run simulations, study performance issues and generate possible improvements, all with the goal of generating valuable insights — which can then be applied back to the original physical object.
“The implementation of a digital twin is an encapsulated software object or model that mirrors a unique physical object, process, organization, person, or other abstraction,” according to Gartner. “Data from multiple digital twins can be aggregated for a composite view across a number of real-world entities, such as a power plant or a city, and their related processes.”