Unleashing the potential of digital twins: a new era with aeronautics 4.0

Abstract

Abstract* Introduction The aerospace value chain consists of several processes, and digitizing it first requires an assessment of these processes and their ability to be transferred to the fully integrated digital thread perspective of smart factories. A digital thread refers to the continuous flow of data and information related to a product throughout its life cycle, integrating and connecting all aspects of a product’s journey. Within this framework, digital twin technology, an essential element of Industry 4.0, comprises the implementation of a virtual presentation of a physical object, system, or process. It brings together the digital replica not only of the physical attributes but also of the behavioral performance of the physical twin. Methods To achieve a digital thread perspective for aeronautics, a research agenda is proposed, including all breakpoints in the current value chain through a PESTLE Analysis, which defines the value-added areas targeted by this transition to digital technology. An aeronautics 4.0 model Digital Thread Twin Smart Aeronautics D2TSAero is proposed, which provides a new perspective in the aeronautics field by integrating its main ecosystems into an interconnected model made possible by the integration of digital twin agent instances. Proof of Concept A use case that deals with the dependability management of an aircraft fuel distribution system is presented. Based on these results, we can see that the proposed twin model can help in reducing real system parts down time, and it can also improve the management of maintenance across the system life cycle by offering a single source of trust for all stakeholders involved in the digital thread cycle of the real twin. Conclusion A forward-looking perspective on the future of aeronautics with this integrated approach is presented, summarizing all the discussed points and the importance of digital twins in supporting the digitalization of the field.