Human digital twin : a review of business applications and future directions

Abstract

In today’s dynamic environment, Industry 5.0 has led to increased attention on the concept of Human Digital Twin (HDT). This thesis is a systematic review to the role and use of Human Digital Twin models in industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, fitness and others. In this thesis a systematic literature review (SLR) of all relevant published studies on Human Digital Twins and its business application is identified. The use of sensors, smart wearables and 3D human attributes modelling to collect data and embed human attributes to a digital counterpart are discussed. The results of the review indicate that Human Digital Twins have been the focus of Industry 5.0 with increased emphasis on Human-Machine Collaboration and human-centric processes being embedded in industry operations. A derived concept from a Digital Twin, an HDT refers to the integration of human attributes of a real human in the physical world replicated into the digital world. While the concept is interesting, understanding the characteristics and architecture of a human digital twin is essential as it encompasses a variety of human behaviours such as physical, emotional, physiological, behavioural, biological and others.

It is shown that the literature on Human Digital Twins is quite limited and is still being researched upon with models and structure being created. This thesis contributes to the discussion on the concept and model of human digital twins is discussed based on papers, along with its applications and use in the shaping of Industry 5.0, potential challenges in the deployment of Human Digital Twins and ethical considerations. Industry context to illustrate the use and benefits of integrating human digital twins into industries is also provided as a mean to answer the research questions posed in this thesis.