Digital Twin Ecosystem Built with PLM Software for Smart Factory

The article points to a new trend in the digital twins creation. It is the use of Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) software to create online twins, which are supported by simulation. Some definitions state that a digital twin is a virtual copy of a real object, but the digital twin ecosystem presented by us combines a virtual twin, simulation, Programmable Logic Controller (PLC), Industrial Internet of Thing (IIoT) and sensors. In the article, we gradually offer an overview of the digital twins development with the proposal of the Digital Twin Ecosystem, which we presented on a practical example in a case study. We describe the step-by-step process from component selection, gradual construction, assembly to final inspection and packaging. This entire technological procedure is transferred to the simulation tool Tecnomatix Plant Simulation and the steps for connecting the simulation with the digital twin created according to the experimental workplace are described step by step. The hardware and software requirements for the design of a complex interactive ecosystem are described in detail in the individual steps. In the conclusion, the benefits of the digital twin are highlighted and potential issues that need attention are outlined. In the article, we wanted to show the process of creating the Digital Twin Ecosystem and that it is becoming a promising tool for optimizing testing in smart companies