Extending Simulation Modeling Methodology for Digital Twin Applications

The number of reported works in Digital Twin (DT) has significantly increased in recent years. A fundamental component of a DT is the digital representation of a real object, process, or system that decision makers wish to evaluate or manage. One of the most utilized digital representations is a simulation model. Traditionally, simulation has been primarily employed for offline applications. However, the introduction of DT technology has enabled an effective online connection between a simulation model and its real counterpart, allowing the use of simulation as part of dynamic control systems for real-time decision making. This paper discusses whether steps in simulation modeling methodology such as conceptual modeling, input modeling, model development, validation, and output analysis, need adjusting for DT applications.