Digital Twin-Driven Conceptual and Embodiment Design: Opportunities and Challenges

Abstract

Digital twin (DT) has recently emerged as a valuable tool for supporting the early stages of the design process. However, the knowledge how DTs can support activities in the conceptual and embodiment design phases are fragmented and dispersed across the scientific literature. Aiming to fill this gap, this paper synthesized from the literature some key insights and opportunities that DTs can provide to designers during the conceptual and embodiment design phases of mechanical systems. It also highlights main challenges resulting from the integration of the digital twins in the early stages of design.