Construction of a Digital Twin Framework Using Free and Open-Source Software Programs

In this article, we present a novel digital twin framework constructed entirely using free and open-source software programs, whose functioning is demonstrated on a portable table-top sized temperature-controlled system. Alongside developing the physical system, a mathematical model of the physical system is constructed which is used as its digital counterpart to run simulations on and to predict future failures. In real-time operation, the mathematical model is observed to analyze system failure at a future time step. Prevention of such failures is achieved using the digital system by providing control inputs to the physical system in real time. This capability is demonstrated by constructing a what-if scenario where a failure point is forced upon the system. Subsequently, an automatic course correction is observed by the digital twin to prevent the potential catastrophe. In addition, a simulation model is created to visualize the results.