A digital twin is a digital representation of a physical asset or system that may connect design or operating data with observed conditions.
Definition
A digital twin represents a physical asset or system in digital form and may connect its model or records to operating data, inspections, or other observed conditions. The connection can range from periodic data updates to more frequent feeds, and the intended decisions vary by project. A firm's scope may include assembling baseline information, linking data sources, configuring updates, checking records, and defining who maintains the representation after delivery. Owners should account for these tasks when setting fees and assigning responsibilities. A digital twin is not necessarily a live model, a complete record of the asset, or an automatic source of reliable predictions. The label alone does not establish update frequency, data quality, or suitability for a decision. It is also distinct from a standalone design model that has no defined connection to actual asset conditions. Project agreements should identify uses, data sources, update duties, access, and reliance.
How owners use it
- Clarify the asset decisions the representation is intended to support before defining deliverables.
- Assign responsibility for data updates, quality checks, access, and ongoing support.
- Example: 10 hours to link asset records + 4 hours for each of 3 update cycles = 22 hours.
