IIoT and Digital Twin: A Systematic Literature Review and Looking Beyond the State

Abstract

The fourth industrial revolution has driven the emergence of Digital Twins (DTs) and Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) in manufacturing. However, the use of different definition has led to varied interpretations and inconsistent understanding of DTs. Thus, by exploring the gap between theoretical frameworks and practical implementations of IIoT-based DTs in manufacturing, this paper aims to shed light on the DT phenomenon by considering the historical evolution and fundamental concepts of IIoT-based DTs. Therefore, a systematic literature review was conducted to assess the ambiguity concerning DTs, particularly in distinguishing architectures and types. Therefore, this paper identifies IIoT-based DTs in manufacturing by reviewing application-oriented literature. As a result of a subsequent classification, this paper proposes a hierarchical classification based on communication dynamics (i.e., Uni-directional and Bi-directional) and information processing (i.e., use or non-use of machine learning). Conclusively, this study proposes a comprehensive classification approach for IIoT-based DTs and thus contributes to a more consistent understanding of the DT phenomenon. Moreover, this paper discusses key findings, as well as implications for research and practice. Finally potential avenues for future research are derived and the limitations of this study are discussed.