Modelling for Digital Twins-Potential Role of Surrogate Models

The application of white box models in digital twins is often hindered by missing knowledge, uncertain information and computational difficulties. Our aim was to overview the difficulties and challenges regarding the modelling aspects of digital twin applications and to explore the fields where surrogate models can be utilised advantageously. In this sense, the paper discusses what types of surrogate models are suitable for different practical problems as well as introduces the appropriate techniques for building and using these models. A number of examples of digital twin applications from both continuous processes and discrete manufacturing are presented to underline the potentials of utilising surrogate models. The surrogate models and model-building methods are categorised according to the area of applications. The importance of keeping these models up to date through their whole model life cycle is also highlighted. An industrial case study is also presented to demonstrate the applicability of the concept.

Automated summary

This paper discusses the difficulties and challenges of modeling in digital twin applications, and explores how surrogate models can be utilized to address these issues. The potential of surrogate models is demonstrated through multiple examples, highlighting the importance of continuously updating the models. An industrial case study is presented to showcase the applicability of the concept.