Worldwide Digital Twins development : a patent landscape study

Abstract

The main goal of the study was to conduct a business intelligence around Digital Twins employing patent landscape methodology. The research defined the current state of technology from patents perspective and discussed the impacts it might have on business opportunities around Digital Twins. The study is a part of DigiBuzz research project funded by Business Finland. The patent landscape shows that Digital Twin is in emerging phase of technological lifecycle. There is an increased number of newcomers, whereas key players have already strengthened their patent portfolios. High number of new filings could become a minefield for companies willing to implement the technology in the future. Originally evolving from aerospace, Digital Twin is continuing to spread to other domains. However, the increased global market potential could not be confirmed by patent data alone.