A Digital Twin will continuously learn and update itself using data from sensors that monitor various aspects of the real-life product’s environment and operating conditions. It can also factor in historical data from prior usage.
In engineering terms, the use of Digital Twins reduces the need to rely on probability-based techniques to determine when an engine might need maintenance or repair. Our Engineers create a Digital Twin of an engine, which is a precise virtual copy of the real-world product. They then install on-board sensors and satellite connectivity on the physical engine to collect data, which is continuously relayed back to its Digital Twin in real time. The twin then operates in the virtual world as the physical engine would on-wing and will determine how the engine is operating and predict when it may need maintenance. This also allows us to enact preventative engine maintenance, which can greatly reduce aircraft downtime and, in turn, enhance reliability.
The data analysis used by the Digital Twin allows us to model a greater number of potential circumstances than physical engine tests would ever allow, which results in a greater understanding. Using a Digital Twin, Rolls-Royce can study and predict the physical behaviours that an engine would exhibit under very extreme conditions. This allows us to model potential operational scenarios entirely digitally.