Discrete event simulation and digital twins: Review and challenges for logistics

Abstract

In the Logistics 4.0 era, the demand for anticipating asset behaviour and make decisions in an almost real time fashion has led to the evolution of DES into an integral part of what is currently known as the Digital Twins (DTs). A Discrete Event Simulation software is assuming the role of the cyber twin, executing simulation software queries on real time data produced by IoT devices embedded on the physical twin, i.e. the automation, which are then processed, updating the simulation to the next system state. In that way, DTs facilitate the convergence of the physical and virtual warehouse, thus supporting efficient and responsive warehouse planning, management and decision making. This paper explores the current literature on the integration of DES and DTs and identifies trends and challenges for contemporary Logistics.