Digital Twin in Fluid Power: Review - Uses and Outlook

Abstract

Digital Twin (DT) technology is a cutting-edge innovation in Industry 4.0 that combines virtual and physical worlds to create real-time representations of scenarios. Simulation, monitoring, and maximizing efficiency are crucial in industrial automation and have been acquiring significant momentum. Fluid Power Application (FPA) is essential in automation, providing accurate control and significant force through hydraulic and pneumatic systems, fluently merging into current configurations. Although there have been significant improvements in DT technology and its prospective applications in fluid power (FP) systems, there is still a lack of understanding regarding its practical deployment in many sectors. Thus, this study examines the practical applications of DT in FP systems, using the knowledge presented in the previous review papers as a foundation. Although recognizing the importance of emerging DT technology and technological enablers, this study focuses on present FPAs where the adoption of DT is still in its early stages. Further, explores the FP systems usage, and outlines the deployment of DT, including advantages over conventional methods, challenges, and potential implications. Furthermore, the article explicitly outlines the technical challenges. This review study highlights literature gaps and drives DT in FPA's research and developments.