Biopharma Is Going Digital … Bit by Bit

The article focuses on the project to develop a supply chain management information system using a digital twin for the maritime transport chain. Digital twins reflect real objects and processes in a virtual environment, which enables analysis, modelling and optimisation of supply chain operations. The author describes the main stages of the project, including requirements definition, system architecture development, implementation and testing. Particular attention is paid to the benefits of using digital twins in supply chain management, such as increased efficiency, reduced risk and improved forecasting. The results of the study show the potential of digital twins to optimise supply chain management and increase the competitiveness of companies. The article presents an approach to building a new model of interaction and systematic optimisation of business processes based on digital technologies at all stages of supply chain formation, which ensures the creation of a digital twin for the maritime transport chain. In order to improve supply chains, a digital twin has been proposed, which opens up great prospects for the management of logistics processes and the exchange of information between supply chain participants. This paper presents a framework for an integral Digital Supply Chain Twin (DSCT) capable of covering the entire transport chain. The proposed information system based on the use of the DSCT provides a number of improvements throughout the supply chain, as well as the ability to model and evaluate different scenarios for the supply chain. This creates opportunities to reduce the cost of organising and coordinating transport, improve the quality of transport and logistics services and make them more reliable by identifying potential problems at an early stage. The article analyses the main information technologies that facilitate the use of DSCT as a useful and reliable tool.

Digital twin technology consists of creating virtual replicas of objects or processes that simulate the behavior of their real counterparts. The objective is to analyze its effectiveness or behavior in certain cases to improve its effectiveness. Applied to products, machines and even complete business ecosystems, the digital twin model can reveal information from the past, optimize the present and even predict the future performance of the different areas analyzed. In the context of supply chains, digital twins are changing the way they do business, providing a range of options to facilitate collaborative environments and data-based decision making and making business processes more robust. This paper proposes the design and development of a digital twin for a case study of a pharmaceutical company. The technology used is based on simulators, solvers and data analytic tools that allow these functions to be connected in an integral interface for the company.

With the development of digital twin, the research on the fusion of intelligent manufacturing system and digital twin technology attracts more attention. In this paper, the realization of digital twin is studied for geometric feature online inspection system of body-in-white (BIW). A three-level virtual modeling approach of Element-Behavior-Rule is proposed for the physical environment modeling in a digital environment. An element model, behavior model and rule model are defined, respectively, and the relationship among the three-layer model is given for real-time communication. A three-layer communication architecture of the digital twin system is designed for the real-time mapping between physical and virtual space, and the process of the online inspection digital twin system is analyzed. Finally, on the basis of the online inspection physical experimental platform and JHIM (Jiangheng Intelligent Manufacturing) software platform, the digital twin system for geometric feature online inspection of BIW is developed, which shows that the virtual model can be driven in real time by real-time physical inspection data. Digital twin technology provides a feasible way for real-time monitoring of the online inspection system.

The new economic context has brought new challenges to the supply chain and has increased the complexity of its processes. The digitalization; as one of these challenges, is a rapidly evolving paradigm that transforms supply chains by integrating data and communication technologies to optimize operations, enhance sustainability, and improve overall performance. Digital twin technology emerged as one of the most promising digital tools that offer an innovative approach to supply chain management. However, the adoption of digital twins in the supply chain is still in its early stages. Previous research papers presented limited overviews of the applications of digital twin technology in supply chain systems that need to be extended, as it is inevitably a work in progress. In this matter, we conducted a systematic literature review built upon 31 articles to determine the applications of supply chain digital twins (SCDT). This study is divided into three core themes; the first is a comprehensive review of the paradigm of digital supply chain with a focus on digital twin technology and its primary features. The second theme presents an analysis of the 31 papers where we explore the different purposes of SCDTs and their integration. in the third theme by using VOSviewer to conduct a network analysis. We aim; through this paper, to contribute significantly to the supply chain management field by summarizing and analyzing existing research and developments in the applications of digital twins in the different areas of supply chains.

Participation and influence of citizens are crucial requirements to ensure sustainable and responsible land use planning. Notwithstanding, both documented and anecdotal evidence indicate that citizens’ influence in planning is still limited, especially in the agenda-setting phase. One explanation is that the design of geospatial tools and participation in land use planning is often limited to elites and experts and less to ordinary citizens. Recent studies propose that digital twins could ensure sustainable and responsible land use planning where the influence of citizens can be significantly observed. Adapting Kingdon's multiple streams framework to include elements of sociotechnical artefacts, this study aims to test this assertion and verify how citizens interacting with government institutions at different levels can employ digital twins to find agenda status for their land use issues and proposals. This study employed a systematic review following the PRISMA process to identify 34 articles about applying digital twins for citizen participation in planning decision-making. The study reveals that to improve the participation and influence of citizens, the development of digital twins needs to be citizen-centric. Data from digital twins should be presented in a form non-experts can understand. Qualities for digital twins to promote citizen participation include being interactive and user-friendly, smooth visualisation and immersive experience, inclusiveness, and privacy-oriented. In line with Kingdon’s framework, citizens could frame, convince, and propose land use interventions. The findings also reveal two ways of citizen participation: (1) providing data for developing digital twins and (2) utilising digital twins to analyse and identify key land use challenges and to push forward land use claims and proposals within a policy system.

605 Figure 2 Kaplan Meier analysis of (A) the Ph III MYSTIC study patients (N=303+285) considered in this proof-of-concept work, and (B) vPhIII study Digital Twins (N=121+121) generated by matching...

The paper discusses industrial production management in an Industry 4.0 enterprise based on digital twins of manufacturing process and products. The principles of applying digital twins in the production cycle are defined. We present an example structure of an integrated automated production management system that includes the digital twins and a number of other systems. The functions of digital twins in such a system are indicated. The order of formation and development of digital twins in the course of the enterprise design and construction is considered. At the initial stage of collecting requirements and drawing up technical specifications for the enterprise design, we propose to create an approximate simulation model of the production cycle, which allows the feasibility assessment of key requirements. At the subsequent stages of the enterprise life cycle, the simulation model is enriched up to a full-fledged digital twin and augmented with other components of the management system. We show that the digital twin development can be performed at a high level of formal rigor and automation utilizing the mathematical device of category theory. For this purpose, the novel construction called flexible multicomma category is introduced, representing all possible enterprise architecture variants from a given viewpoint in the sense of the ISO/IEC/IEEE 42010 standard. A flexible multicomma is defined by a signature composed of functors that represent the architecture components from the selected viewpoint. We prove that a multicomma of any fixed shape derived from the signature is embedded into the flexible multicomma.

Purpose This study explores how digital twin technology boosts operational efficiency within supply chains. It identifies key attributes influencing logistics and performance, synthesizing existing research insights and highlights knowledge gaps to guide organizations considering digital twin adoption. Design/methodology/approach The research involved a systematic literature review, focusing on articles from 2014 to 2024, sourced from the Science Direct database. Keywords related to digital twins and supply chain management informed the selection criteria. Findings Findings reveal significant benefits from digital twin integration, including process optimization, error reduction and shorter production cycles (15–25%). Energy consumption and downtime decrease by 15–20%, while productivity improves by up to 25%. Additionally, cost savings of up to 30% are achieved, along with enhanced flexibility, responsiveness to market changes and resilience to disruptions. Collaboration among stakeholders within the supply chain is also strengthened. Originality/value This research positions digital twins as a strategic tool for supply chain optimization. It offers practitioners and researchers a robust conceptual foundation to assess their impact on operational efficiency and paves the way for further exploration in this transformative area.

This article analyzed approaches related to the development of digital twins. Interest in digital twin technology is growing in science and law enforcement. In this regard, we can talk about the formation of the Concept of “digital twins”, which is based on the fact that it is a virtual copy of a physical object that can track it in real time. Accordingly, a framework has been established to compare digital twin approaches in terms of research areas, technologies and models used in digital twin, and verification methods used. Using the proposed framework, gaps and future directions for digital twin research are identified along five dimensions: digital twin definitions, applications, integration, modeling, and data.

The Halal supply chain, which encompasses the sectors of food, medicines, cosmetics, has enormous challenges to comply with Islamic rules, maintain product traceability and combating fraud. Given the increasing global demand for Halal products, the demand for technology innovations to enhance supply chain transparency and ensure Halal compliance is growing. This paper explores the application of Digital Twin (DT) technology in Halal supply chain management, highlighting its ability to address these challenges. The main research question of this paper is as follows: How can Digital Twin technology facilitate transparency, traceability, and compliance in the Halal supply chains? The current study employs a qualitative methodology through a review of the extant literature and reviews of industrial case studies. The study reveals that the Digital Twin technology promises to considerably improve the operational excellence of Halal supply chains through real-time Halal status monitoring ensuring that products comply with religious and ethical requirements along the supply chain. The main applications include tracking Halal certification, preventing cross-contamination, and enhancing transparency for certification bodies, manufacturers, and consumers. The results indicate that Digital Twin technology has the potential to transform Halal supply chains by reducing fraud, improving operational efficiencies, and building consumer trust. As a comprehensive Halal compliance solution, Digital Twin can enable a more transparent and trustworthy Halal certification process on a global scale. The study extends the knowledge body on technology innovations in supply chain management especially with religious and ethical product certifications and sets the stage for future research in the area.

Robotics and automation have been a growing area within K–12 educational institutions for the past decade. Across secondary educational institutions, students are introduced to robotics in classes, after-school clubs, and competition leagues through various educational platforms, vendors, and kits. Robotics was initially implemented in schools to help drive more interest in STEM through hands-on application of mechanical, electrical, structural, and computer engineering concepts. Recently, the trend of K–12 robotics has become very niche, focusing more on mobile robotics or robotics competitions. Because of this trend, students have limited exposure to emerging technological advances, such as those found in Industry 4.0. Exciting technological areas, such as digital twins, are not covered in curricula, and this lack of exposure negatively influences the direction of student interest in the “T” and “E” of STEM, with many students never pursuing computer science, technology, or robotics in higher education. The primary goal of this research is to provide a methodology to expose secondary students to Industry 4.0 technologies by leveraging accessible technologies, such as Unity and the Robot Operating System (ROS), to develop a low-cost, high-fidelity digital twin of a pick-and-place robot in a smart warehouse operation. This digital twin prototype will help students to learn about Industry 4.0 trends, such as next-generation automation systems, digital twins, digital manufacturing, intelligent automation, and additive manufacturing, using ROS–Unity integration and hardware accessible to secondary schools to simulate a pick-and-place robotic application. By harnessing the accessibility of Unity and ROS to create a low-cost digital twin prototype for a secondary school, this research has a secondary goal of improving the pipeline of students interested in pursuing STEM-related learning in higher education, thereby ensuring a future STEM workforce that can research, design, develop, operate, and maintain the systems and technologies of Industry 4.0.

9 - Digital Twin Development and cloud deployment for a DC Motor Control embedded system

Purpose The research provides new strategies for enhancing resilience in pharmaceutical manufacturing by addressing the dynamic nature of digital technology within the challenging framework of a VUCA (volatility, uncertainty, complexity and ambiguity) world, focusing on the concept of digital twins (DTs). This paper aims to emphasize the pivotal role of resilience in navigating disruptions and propose future research directions to contribute to the industry’s effective adaptation to uncertainties and dynamic challenges. Design/methodology/approach This research uses a qualitative approach, drawing insights from an extensive literature review on pharmaceutical manufacturing resilience and the integration of digital technologies. Methodologically, it synthesizes information from scholarly articles, empirical studies and industry reports to construct a comprehensive understanding. This design facilitates a thorough examination of the subject, providing valuable insights for practitioners, researchers and policymakers in the pharmaceutical industry. Findings This paper illustrates the practical application of DTs in vaccine production, emphasizing their critical role in ensuring quality, safety and adaptability. It adopts the “seizing, sensing and transforming” framework, showcasing the strategic integration of Industry 4.0 technologies to address dynamic challenges. Key insights include the significance of human elements alongside technological advancements, the need for real-time monitoring using Internet of Things (IoT) and artificial intelligence (AI) and the transformative potential of sustainability practices, diversified supply chains and collaborative ecosystems. Research limitations/implications This paper highlights the integration of human and digital elements, emphasizing IoT, AI and DTs for resilience. It underscores sustainable practices, supply chain diversification and collaboration as key strategies for addressing pharmaceutical industry challenges. Practical implications This paper offers practical insights for pharmaceutical manufacturing, emphasizing the need for robust cybersecurity measures, strategic investments in digital technologies and proactive regulatory compliance. Managers are encouraged to allocate budgets for digital integration, prioritize change management for technology adoption and invest in a skilled workforce. The adoption and management of DTs are highlighted to enhance resilience. Overall, the paper guides pharmaceutical organizations in navigating the complexities of the VUCA environment, ensuring the quality and safety of products through a multifaceted approach that combines advanced technologies with sustainability practices, supply chain diversification and collaborative ecosystems. Social implications The research addresses VUCA challenges, including volatility, uncertainty, complexity and ambiguity in pharmaceutical manufacturing. It emphasizes societal benefits such as uninterrupted drug supply, environmental responsibility through sustainable practices and enhanced collaboration among stakeholders. By leveraging digital technologies and resilience strategies, the study highlights the pharmaceutical sector’s pivotal role in managing health crises and ensuring patient safety. Originality/value This paper offers substantial originality and value by presenting a comprehensive framework for bolstering resilience in pharmaceutical manufacturing within the VUCA environment. The integration of advanced digital technologies, notably DTs, is explored in-depth, providing novel insights into their practical application. The “seizing, sensing and transforming” concept contributes a nuanced approach, considering both technological and human dimensions. This paper addresses the gaps in current literature by combining diverse elements such as Industry 4.0, risk assessment, sustainability practices and collaborative ecosystems. Its practical implications for managers and detailed exploration of research directions add tangible value, guiding future endeavors in enhancing pharmaceutical industry resilience.

Digital twins (DTs) are rapidly changing how manufacturing companies leverage the large volumes of data they generate daily to gain a competitive advantage and optimize their supply chains. When coupled with recent developments in machine learning (ML), DTs have the potential to generate invaluable insights for process manufacturing companies to help them optimize their manufacturing processes. However, this potential has yet to be fully exploited due to the challenges that process manufacturing companies face in developing and implementing DTs in their organizations. Although DTs are receiving increasing attention in both industry and academia, there is limited literature on how to apply them in the process industry. To address this gap, this paper presents a framework for developing ML-based DTs to predict critical process parameters in real time. The proposed framework is tested through a case study at an international process manufacturing company in which it was used to collect and process plant data, build accurate predictive models for two critical process parameters, and develop a DT application to visualize the models’ predictions. The case study demonstrated the usefulness of the proposed DT–ML framework in the sense that it provided the company with more accurate predictions than the models it previously applied. The study provides insights into the value of applying ML-based DT in the process industry and sheds light on some of the challenges associated with the application of this technology.

Digital twin technology has been increasingly applied in healthcare and patient well-being in recent years. This paper provides an overview of the current methods and applications of digital twins in the healthcare field. One such application is digital twins in precision healthcare, where digital twins are used to create patient-specific models to assist in diagnosis and treatment planning. Digital twins are also used in hospital/clinic management, where they help to optimize resource allocation and workflow processes. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, digital twins have been utilized to detect outbreaks and predict disease spread. In addition, digital twins have been applied in bio-manufacturing and pharmaceutical industry to improve manufacturing processes. Another application area is machine learning and modeling, where digital twins are used in machine learning, data generation, and system modeling for applications in healthcare and disease prediction. Security and ethical issues related to digital twins are also discussed in this paper, as privacy concerns and data protection remain important considerations in the application of digital twin technology in healthcare. Finally, the paper concludes by discussing the future challenges and directions of future work in this field. These include the need to develop more accurate and sophisticated digital twin models, addressing interoperability and integration issues, and further exploring the potential of digital twin technology in emerging areas such as telemedicine and personalized medicine.