The challenges of using live-streamed data in a predictive digital twin

A key component of a digital twin is the monitored data, communicated from the physical system to the virtual representation, for visualization and simulation. Yet little attention has been paid to the practicalities of working with live-streamed data. Strategies are required for providing continuous access and storage, for processing data of indeterminate quality, and for ensuring long-term sustainability of data communication systems. This paper describes design of the data communication infrastructure, 3D visualization and data interpretation tools, and model development and implementation, for an operational digital twin. Conclusions are drawn pertaining to the informativeness of streamed data, key for successful digital twin development and operation. The paper highlights the need for further research into techniques for ensuring data quality and forecasting efficacy. Digital twins operated commercially are rarely described in detail; the discussion provides a basis for future collaborative development of a consistent operational and interactive framework.