Definition
A digital twin is an integrated, predictive model of a specific physical system, using the best available models and sensor data to mirror and forecast that system's behavior and performance over its life.1 The concept originated in aerospace and defense engineering, describing a virtual counterpart tied to a specific physical asset, updated with real data from that asset.
Why a digital twin isn't the same as a digital thread
A digital twin is distinct from a digital thread: a digital thread is the traceable data connection across a system's life cycle, while a digital twin is a predictive model that can use data flowing through that thread. See digital thread.
Where a digital twin lives
Not on the drawing; a digital twin is a software model maintained alongside a specific physical system, informed by but not shown on that system's technical documentation.
Common mistakes
Using 'digital twin' loosely for any 3D model or simulation; the term specifically implies a predictive model tied to and updated by data from a specific physical counterpart, not just a static digital representation.
A digital twin is distinct from a digital thread: a digital thread is the traceable data connection across a system's life cycle, while a digital twin is a predictive model that can use data flowing through that thread. See digital thread.
See how Blake reviews a partFrequently asked questions
Is a digital twin just a 3D model?
No, a 3D model is a static representation; a digital twin is a predictive model updated with real data from its specific physical counterpart.
Is a digital twin the same as a digital thread?
No, a digital thread is the traceable data connection across a system's life cycle; a digital twin is a predictive model that can draw on that data.
Where did the term originate?
In aerospace and defense engineering, describing a virtual counterpart to a specific physical vehicle or system, updated with real operational data.
Notes & references
- Glaessgen, E. H. & Stargel, D. S. (2012). The Digital Twin Paradigm for Future NASA and U.S. Air Force Vehicles. 53rd AIAA/ASME/ASCE/AHS/ASC Structures, Structural Dynamics and Materials Conference, AIAA 2012-1818. https://doi.org/10.2514/6.2012-1818 The originating NASA/US Air Force paper that defines the digital twin paradigm as a predictive model tied to and updated by a specific physical counterpart.