Many companies have invested in Product Digital Twin, in part because they’re most familiar with this type of Digital Twin. It defines features and requirements, develops concepts and detailed design, and simulates and validates a product. However, a model-based definition—of creating a 3D model of the product—and model-based systems engineering are needed to simulate all aspects of a product. These MBE features are important for looking at the cross-functional requirements you need early in the design, eliminating the downstream churn, and driving the most impact.

The Smart Factory and Supply Chain Digital Twin are digital models of manufacturing equipment, processes, and related operations personnel that aid in the planning, building, and sourcing of a product. Organizations use this type of Digital Twin to simulate the launch of their new product. Companies often wonder how else they can use this software. At the same time, less than 5% that create Digital Twins on the shop floor combine their manufacturing and ERP data with supply and demand to make predictions about their product or potential issues.

The Service Digital Twin is used to operate and maintain a product. A Service Digital Twin deals with serializing a product, testing physical product performance and configuration, and accrual service records for maintenance, repair, and overhaul.