NWO awards € 4 million to DIGITAL TWIN programme

At the moment, most digital twins are still based on static theoretical models that assume normal behaviour. By linking these models to measurement data that indicate how the system functions in practice and by combining these data with artificial intelligence, the researchers can make digital copies that continually improve and adapt themselves. The research, led by UG Professor of Mechatronics and Control of Nonlinear Systems Bayu Jayawardhana, focuses on a number of example systems that have been submitted by Dutch high-tech companies involved in the programme. “In this programme, we bring together theoretical mechanical engineering, software engineering, systems and control engineering and artificial intelligence. This results in digital twins that are more accurate, flexible and realistic,” according to Jayawardhana.

Regional embedding
Through two publicly available ‘demonstrators’, the project will make the benefits of the autonomous and flexible development methodology of ‘digital twinning’ available to a wide audience. The project is regionally embedded in northern Field Labs, such as the ‘Region of Smart Factories’. Every year the Dutch Research Council (NWO) finances four to six Applied and Engineering Sciences Perspective programmes. The Perspective programme is financed by the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Policy. The programme challenges scientists to establish new lines of research with economic and societal impact, in close collaboration with the business world and societal organizations.