Meaning:

Translated from the English term “digital twin,” it refers to creating a virtual model to accurately reflect a physical object. The object being studied — for example, a wind turbine — is outfitted with various sensors related to vital areas of functionality. These sensors produce data about different aspects of the physical object’s performance, such as energy output, temperature, weather conditions and more. This data is then relayed to a processing system and applied to the digital copy. Once equipped with such data, the virtual model can be used to run simulations, study performance issues and generate possible improvements, all with the goal of generating valuable insights — which can then be applied back to the original physical object. This concept popular in the digital transformation of industries was first raised by Michael Grieves, a U.S. expert in computer engineering.

Example:

A: 数字孪生通常应用在哪些行业？

Shùzì luánshēng tōngcháng yìngyòng zài nǎxiē hángyè？

Which industries can use digital twin technology?

B: 可以应用在航空航天、电力、农业、建筑、制造、健康医疗、环保等很多行业。

Kěyǐ yìngyòng zài hángkōng hángtiān、 diànlì 、 nóngyè 、 jiànzhù 、 zhìzào 、 jiànkāng yīliáo 、 huánbǎo děng hěnduō hángyè。

It can be used in many industries such as space and aviation, power, agriculture, architecture, manufacturing, health and medical care and environmental protection.