Application of digital twin technology in Russia: Development opportunities and constraints

Abstract

Aim. To identify trends in the development of the digital twin concept in Russia.Objectives. To analyze the experience of applying such an innovative tool as a digital twin at Russian enterprises and consider the benefits of its implementation; to characterize the aspects of regulation and state support in the field of digital twin application in Russia; to reveal the main problems hindering the development of digital twin technology, as well as to propose posible solutions to the identified problems.Methods. The authors used empirical methods, in particular, the analysis and generalization of data from scientific and methodological literature; methods of observation and comparison. The article also reflects the results of scientific research of Russian and foreign scientists.Results. It is established that today the method of digital twins in the economy is becoming more and more popular. Thanks to the introduction of digital twin technology, companies manage to speed up production processes, increase their transparency, reduce costs, improve the quality of manufactured products and, in general, achieve greater efficiency, competitiveness and investment attractiveness. The main constraints to development include insufficient funds required to implement digital transformation, lack of necessary experience and highly qualified specialists, low level of legal framework in the field of digital twins and high level of risks associated with data security. For successful implementation of digital transformation, it is advisable to study and generalize successful examples of digital twins implementation both in foreign and domestic companies, to create a unified management system for this area, to develop a motivation system for companies applying digital twin technology, to increase the level of information security.Conclusions. In Russia, innovative technologies are a priority for ensuring technological leadership and entry of domestic companies into international markets. Despite lagging behind some foreign countries, Russia has great potential for the formation of a national market and the introduction of digital twin technology, especially among large corporations and high-tech enterprises. But for this purpose it is necessary to eliminate the factors that hinder the development of the digital twin method, such as high risks associated with cybersecurity, insufficient funding in the use of technology, the lack of specificity in some cases in the field of legal regulation and a number of others.