Digital Twin for Development and Installation of Production Systems

Abstract

Traditional production systems need to become more flexible and sustainable with increased digitalisation due to expanding individualised product demands. Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) are a key part of sustainable economies and need to adopt new technologies from Industry 4.0 to stay competitive but tend to fall behind due to a lack of methodological framework. To address these challenges, Research Institute of Sweden (RISE) has initiated a project called "Digital twin for development and Installation of production systems" (DIP) to adapt methods from larger corporations to SMEs. The DIP project has resulted in a work method called the DIP method to reduce time, cost and risk when implementing changes in production systems. This thesis explores the challenges and needs in SMEs, with an evaluation of the DIP method by making a comparison of findings from a literature study and an interview study. The thesis identified several challenges and needs focusing on economic constraints, resistance to change, active top management, a digital strategy, and clear goals. Further identified was the lack of skill and technical resources and need for support. Therefore, this thesis has developed a change management model to address the challenges and needs of SMEs, called the DIP model. The DIP model aims to provide a structure to minimise challenges presented by working in four phases, exploration, planning, action and integration. Additionally, the model provides directives for DIP-central to support companies working with the four phases. Finally, the DIP model will serve as a base to further develop the DIP method by creating material for marketing, workshops and support.