The introduction of the Novel Generation Modelling (NGM) system by researchers from Zhejiang University marks a significant milestone in the evolution of industrial technology. This digital twin (DT) platform, unveiled on September 3, 2024, is set to revolutionize the process industry by creating highly accurate virtual replicas of physical systems. The NGM system addresses the critical need for a more versatile and robust DT solution, capable of integrating complex data streams and models from multiple sources, a challenge that existing platforms have struggled with.
Published in the journal Digital Twins and Applications, the NGM system leverages the open-source programming language Modelica to offer a scalable and accurate modeling environment. It includes eight integrated modules, such as editors, simulators, and compilers, enabling the modeling of chemical, electrical, thermal, and fluid systems. This comprehensive approach not only simulates industrial systems but also optimizes them for peak performance, paving the way for safer and more efficient industrial control systems.
Professor Wenhai Wang, the project's lead researcher, highlighted the platform's potential to empower industries with unprecedented levels of efficiency and reliability. The NGM system's applications extend across various industries, from chemical plants to energy production facilities, offering benefits like predictive maintenance, continuous real-time monitoring, minimized downtime, lower operational costs, and reduced environmental impact. Supported by significant funding sources, including the Industrial Internet Development Project and the National Natural Science Foundation of China, the NGM platform is poised to set new standards for smart manufacturing.
The implications of the NGM platform's introduction are vast, not only for industrial applications but also for fields like urban planning, healthcare, and environmental management. By enabling the creation of accurate virtual replicas of complex systems, the technology opens up new possibilities for scenario testing, outcome prediction, and informed decision-making. As industries worldwide continue their digital transformation, the NGM platform represents a crucial step towards realizing the full potential of Industry 4.0, promising a future of more efficient, safe, and sustainable industrial processes.
