A Deep Dive into the Current and Future Conditions for Virtual Commissioning of Production Lines

Abstract: The use of virtual commissioning has increased in the last years, but there are still challenges before the software code validation method is widespread in use. One of the additions to virtual commissioning is basing it on a digital twin to allow for improved accuracy. The aim of this thesis is to review existing standards and approaches to developing virtual commissioning, as well as to explore the definitions. The chosen approach to achieve the aim, is to perform a literature review of existing research papers and interviews with knowledgeable people in the industry. First, the definitions and classifications are reviewed, then the approaches for development of virtual commissioning and digital twins are explored in the literature. In three interviews with people of varying backgrounds and competences, the views of the virtual technologies are assessed to provide insight in the industry. The findings of the literature review and interviews are among others, the apparent need for standardisation in the field and that a sought-after standard in the form of ISO 23247-1 is under way. Furthermore, the digital twin is a concept with a promising future in combination with other technologies of Industry 4.0. In conclusion, this thesis provides a deep review of the challenges and possibilities of virtual commissioning and the digital twin and could be used as starting point for further research in standardisations and improvements sprung from the new standard.