In Marvel’s iron man movies they ran simulations via virtual models made with dancing blue light – a computer version of a physical object or system.
This ‘digital twin’ concept has now been extended to play a significant role in sectors such as manufacturing, due to its ability to test and forecast safer, faster and cheaper than doing it in ‘real life’. According to Josh Farrell, writing in Manufacturers’ Monthly.
Researchers are now exploring how to use this technology on composite materials. The focus at the moment are applications in aerospace with Boeing set to apply the technology.
The goal is to achieve increased digitalisation of manufacturing for composite material. The aim would also be to digitally transform the repair process in aircraft and spacecraft built from composite structures.
See the following link to see the organisations involved and further details of how this technology could be applied.