Analyzing the Characteristics of Digital Twin and Discrete Event Simulation in Cyber Physical Systems

Abstract

Digital Twins (DTs) are described as the next wave in simulation, a critical component of Cyber Physical Systems (CPS), and a key enabler for da-ta-driven decision-making. Yet, the literature presents limited understanding about the characteristics of DTs and their relation to current simulation capabilities. Addressing this problem, the purpose of this study is to analyze the characteristics of DTs and simulation models for CPS in production logistics. This study reviews extant literature on DTs and presents findings from a single case study at a South Korean manufacturing company developing a DT including Discrete Event Simulation (DES). The findings of this study highlight the importance of DES in DTs focusing on increased production logistics performance. The results of this study indicate that the use of DES may promote the development of DTs, but be insufficient in the characterization of DTs for CPS in production logistics.