Have you ever heard of digital twins? What are they? What are they used for? Read on to find out!
Digital twin: your virtual copy
When we talk about a digital twin, we refer to a virtual copy, then a true model, of a real, physical entity in operation. The digital twin, the definition of which was first adopted by NASA engineer John Vickers in 2010, is the exact copy of the original asset, and that also includes historical data.
It is functional to assess the current condition of the original asset and, and, from a future perspective, to predict and anticipate its behavior, with the goal of monitoring its performance and/or trend, and optimizing its operation.
Between the physical and virtual entities, there can be an exchange of data and information, both synchronously, i.e., in real time, and asynchronously, i.e., at later times.
Consequently, the virtual model allows simulations to be run and situations to be analyzed with a view to improvement. The ultimate goal is of generating insights and evidence that, in turn, can be applied to the physical asset. However, the data sharing activity, just mentioned, remains an ongoing practice: the digital twin never stops learning and updating.
Furthermore, the data representing it can come from a variety of sources: from sensors that transmit its operating conditions, to history, which can also be collected through individuals, or through the Internet.
Among the systems it can make use of are machine learning and artificial intelligence, which facilitate the processing of data and information aimed at producing more and more timely and accurate knowledge.
Digital twins and application in fashion
The concept of digital twin finds its most fertile ground within the industrial context, but the sectors in which it can be applied are truly numerous, from healthcare to retail.
With an eye on the latter, let’s delve into the potential of this technology in fashion, where digital transformation is helping to chart new and innovative paths thanks to the introduction of new technologies.
Indeed, it is in recent years that the tool of digital twins, applied in fashion, is facing its greatest growth. According to research by MarketsandMarkets, in 2020, the global market was estimated to be around $3.1 billion , with a prospect of increasing to around $48.2 billion by 2026.
This meteoric rise in the adoption and utilization of digital twins within the fashion industry can be attributed to several key factors. Firstly, digital twins offer a means to bridge the physical and digital realms of fashion, enabling designers and manufacturers to create virtual replicas of physical products and processes. This digital representation allows for meticulous analysis, experimentation, and refinement, ultimately leading to enhanced product design and development.
Furthermore, digital twins empower fashion brands to optimize their supply chain management, reducing waste and inefficiencies. By creating a digital mirror of their entire supply chain, companies can gain real-time insights into inventory levels, production schedules, and logistical operations. This newfound transparency and data-driven decision-making translate into cost savings and a reduced environmental footprint.
Customer-centricity at its finest
Consumer-centricity is another aspect where digital twins have made a significant impact in the fashion industry. Brands can utilize these virtual counterparts to personalize the shopping experience for their customers.
By understanding individual preferences and body measurements, fashion companies can offer tailored recommendations and even create made-to-order clothing, thereby enhancing customer satisfaction and loyalty.
Moreover, digital twins have revolutionized the realm of sustainability in fashion. With the ability to simulate and analyze the entire lifecycle of a garment, from design to disposal, brands can make informed choices to minimize waste, choose eco-friendly materials, and reduce the carbon footprint of their products.
The rise of digital twins in the fashion industry is nothing short of a transformative journey. As it continues to gain momentum, this technology promises to reshape the way fashion is designed, produced, and consumed. With the potential to enhance creativity, efficiency, sustainability, and customer engagement, the fashion world stands on the cusp of a digital twin revolution that will redefine the future of style and apparel.
The exponential growth projected in the coming years is a testament to the boundless possibilities that lie ahead for this innovative fusion of fashion and technology.
Digital twins in fashion
But what, then, are the main areas of application of digital twins? What benefits can they bring within the industry? Read on to find out!
- Design and development
Particularly, through digital twins, it is possible for product designers to explore and investigate different design, material and color alternatives without necessarily having to resort to creating physical prototypes. The approach speeds up the regular development process, reducing the costs and environmental impact associated with producing physical samples.
- Tailor made customization
Based on the assumption that consumers, more and more, are looking for unique clothing and accessories tailored to their specific and personal needs. Thanks to digital twins it is possible to create a virtual avatar that faithfully represents their morphology.
Green light, then, to the possibility of virtually testing garments, already availing themselves of an idea about the fit. This improves the online shopping experience and reduces the risk of returns. This has a positive impact on customer satisfaction, increased loyalty to the brand and an additional incentive in repeat purchase in the case of existing customers.
Indeed, the same benefits are also achievable through Tailoor technology. It enables a virtual try-on experience tailored to the user, perfectly adhering to all the features just mentioned, and in perfect match with their preferences and anatomical measurements.
- Supply chain optimization
The benefits of digital twins in fashion also produce a favorable impact on the supply chain. In fact, they enable the creation of virtual assets of warehouses, production facilities and stores. This allows retailers to keep track, in real time, of the flow of products, enabling more efficient management of their inventory.
Consequently, this reduces waste and any disruptions that often occur in the production and distribution of products.
It is also possible to analyze and forecast customer demand, so that manufacturers themselves can adapt more smoothly and immediately to new market trends.
- Virtual shopping experience
Thanks to digital twins, opportunities in virtual shopping experiences are also multiplied: consumers can explore stores and try on clothing in a completely innovative way. The result is an immersive and interactive experience, with the addition of personalized recommendations based on specific preferences and personal style.
Finally, clothing produced by Tailoor’s technology has an additional element of personalization and differentiation: its digital twin certificate, attesting the existence of the virtual asset.
An opportunity to be valued
In conclusion, then, the application of digital twins in the fashion industry is actively helping to revolutionize the industry. Through their implementation, brands can achieve new levels of operational efficiency and customer engagement, paving the way for more sustainable, personalized and cutting-edge fashion.
