Digital Twin Models and Networks

A digital twin (DT) model reflects one or a group of physical objects that exist in a complex real system to a virtual space. By interconnecting and coordinating multiple independent models, a DT network (DTN) can be built to map the associations and interactions between physical objects. In this chapter, we present DT models in terms of modelling frameworks, modelling methods, and modelling challenges. Then we elaborate the concept of DTNs and compare it with the concept of DT. The communication mechanisms, application scenarios, and open research issues of DTNs are then discussed.