A digital twin is a virtual replica of a physical system, process, or product, allowing engineers to simulate, test, and optimise various scenarios before implementing them in the real world. This concept, combined with artificial intelligence is set to significantly change the way factories operate, leading to increased efficiency, reduced costs, and improved sustainability.
Foxconn has recently created a digital twin of its new factory in Guadalajara, Mexico. Foxconn's engineers can define processes and train robots in a virtual environment, ensuring that the physical plant operates at peak efficiency from day one.
Young Liu, chairman of Foxconn, emphasises the significance of this development: "Our digital twin will guide us to new levels of automation and industrial efficiency, saving time, cost and energy."
The integration of digital twins, AI, and advanced platforms like NVIDIA Omniverse is set to transform the manufacturing landscape. As demonstrated by Foxconn's virtual factory in Guadalajara, this technology can lead to increased efficiency, reduced costs, and improved sustainability. With an estimated 10 million factories worldwide, the potential impact of industrial digitalisation is immense.