Digital twins

Present situation worldwide and in Switzerland

Virtual, i.e. computer-simulated, process mapping is now a common tool for planning, dimensioning and optimisation in almost all technical applications. Up to now, the approaches used were for the most part purely deterministic, i.e. involving pre-determined outcomes. By contrast, the mapping of complex, interlinked manufacturing processes poses a major challenge in terms of model precision, computing time and data management. Today, next to widely applicable programmes (general purpose), calculations also rely more and more on simulation tools aimed at specific applications (special purpose), making it possible to streamline the structure of virtual models. A new trend is the direct inclusion of virtual models in “smart” inline process control systems. Based both on digitally generated data and the analysis of direct measurement data, so-called “digital twins” are set up to map and replicate real processes. They operate as the actual “brain” of smart, self-correcting processes. These developments are an important building block for new industry 4.0 concepts.

Implications for Switzerland

High levels of simulation competence are to be found mainly in large companies with highly automated, robot- assisted production systems. A prime example is the German automotive industry, which has already largely integrated industry 4.0 processes. The integration of such technologies is much less pronounced in most Swiss SMEs, which possess neither the necessary simulation competence nor sufficient experience in developing new, independent software tools. It is likely that these companies will join forces within new networks in order to master the challenges of digitalisation, as this requires a vast array of competences. Successfully meeting this challenge requires sufficient and appropriately trained personnel: the demand for technically-oriented industrial computer scientists is therefore set to increase. In coming years, enough of these sought-after professionals must be trained and educated.