Digital Twin in High Precision Machining - A Systematic literature Review

Abstract

This paper explores the emerging technology of Digital Twins and their applications in the high-precision machining industry in predicting the tool life and controlling the process variation. A Digital Twin is a virtual model that mirrors a real-world device throughout its lifecycle, incorporating real-time data from the physical system to provide insights and facilitate decision-making. Digital Twins may be created for various elements, including individual assets, production lines, end products, or any other real-world scenarios within the production process. One of the biggest challenges manufacturers faces is that production data is scattered across various systems and formats, making it difficult to extract meaningful insights. Through a systematic literature review and case study, we investigate Digital Twin adoption and application to performance and maintenance in critical machine tools in aviation. In aviation, complex geometry critical parts have very close feature tolerances and while machining these features, cutting tools, machining parameters and condition of the machine play a vital role in controlling the process. The paper emphasizes the role of Digital Twins in monitoring the geometry and lifespan of cutting tools, machining parameters and controlling the process in critical machine tools.