Foundations of Digital Twins

Foundations of Digital Twins explains the fundamentals of digital twins, how digital twin technologies can gather real world data using the sensor networks that comprise the Internet of Things, and how that data can be sorted, analyzed, and used to improve services and increase sustainability. Structured in five sections, the book begins with an introductory overview of each technology, establishing a clear understanding of their individual roles and their potential when combined. The second section delves into data acquisition, featuring advanced sensors, drones, robots and actuators. Part Three considers data exchange and security, focusing on CPS, the internet of things, and blockchain.

Part Four looks at how digital twins can impact on data computing, such as video streaming, cloud computing, fog computing and edge-computing. The final section explores the future opportunities and risks of adopting advanced technologies in this evolving field, including artificial intelligence, the ethical issues concerned when collecting and using data, and the security implications.