Universal, bi-directional real time communication for digital twins

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Authors: Daniel Schmid, Silvan Lack
Cited by: 0

Abstract

The scientific work contains the solution for real-time, bi-directional communication between Digital and Real Twins in mechanical engineering. It features a three-axis XYZ axes system developed within a Model-based Systems Engineering (MBSE) environment using the RFLP V-model approach. The Real Twin is operated via a standard industrial PLC (B+R), while communication is enabled through Modelica, Named Pipes, and OPC UA (3DExperience platform). The study details the design and implementation of the communication interface, including connection types and modes. Performance is highlighted by a 10 ms turnaround time for one axis value. Potential applications span industrial (e.g. pick-and-place and 3D printing) and educational (alternatively as game-oriented demonstrator available) contexts. The project demonstrates that a complete Digital Twin Framework can be successfully integrated into a complex MBSE environment while maintaining high performance, effectively bridging the gap between physical and digital systems in mechanical engineering.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Digital Transformation in Industry Modeling and Simulation Systems Industrial Automation and Control Systems

Publication details

Journal / source
Zürcher Hochschule für Angewandte Wissenschaften digital collection (Zurich University of Applied Sciences)
Publication date
29 January 2026
Language
EN