The Role of Digital Twins in Smart Manufacturing and Industrial IoT

Abstract

Digital twins—virtual replicas of physical systems—are transforming manufacturing by enabling real-time monitoring, predictive maintenance, and process optimization. This paper examines the implementation of digital twin technology in Industry 4.0, focusing on its applications in aerospace, automotive, and healthcare. We discuss the integration of AI, IoT, and big data analytics to enhance decision-making and reduce operational costs. Challenges such as data security, interoperability, and computational complexity are also explored. The findings highlight digital twins as a key driver of innovation in smart manufacturing and industrial automation.