ABSTRACT

The digitalization of large structures as ships and offshore platforms supports the application of sophisticated virtual product models, which are referred to as digital twins, throughout all stages of construction and operation life. Particularly, more realistic virtual models of the structural systems are essential to bridge the gap between design and construction and to mirror the real and virtual worlds. In this paper, the vision of the digital twin and its evolution is reviewed, aiming at providing a coverage of the current applications and the challenges of the digital twins of the physical ships and offshore structures in design, construction and service life and enabling technologies along with recommendations and reflections.