New research project on digital twins

The convergence of machines and intelligent data, called the Industrial Internet, will transform industry through intelligent, interconnected objects that dramatically improve performance, lower operating costs and increase reliability. Aalto University Industrial Internet Campus carries out research on the opportunities of digital transformation to the industry and has just started a new project on digital twins.  

Digital twin refers to a real-time digital replica of a physical asset, process or system that can be used for life-cycle management such as product development or predictive maintenance. Availability of IoT data is now radically expanding the capability of digital twins.

The DigiTwin research project utilizes the overhead crane equipped with extensive digital systems that Konecranes donated to Aalto University in 2016. The highest potential of digital twins and the focus of the research project is in the coupling of the crane and its digital twin with product configuration, product design, and product life cycle.  

The project partners include Konecranes, Siemens Osakeyhtiö, Ideal PLM, RD Velho and Remion. Also a wider network will be established with companies and organisations that could benefit from the research. Digital twins can be utilized with all kinds of industrial products and the aim of the research project is to develop methods and solutions that can benefit the Finnish industry as a whole in their digital transformation.  

The project is funded by Business Finland. 

Project manager

Juuso Autiosalo