What is a digital twin? A digital replica running in parallel with the real port
A digital twin is not a 3D model. It is a replica that runs in parallel with the real asset, receives data continuously, and lets you test “what if…” before deciding. Three stages on a container port.
What the model calculates, and what it doesn't
The port in the game is a port dispatching engine (quay cranes, AGVs, yard cranes) simulated second by second. The digital twin is the same engine running in parallel, receiving “sensor” data from the real port: vehicle positions, crane status, container counts. When an incident occurs, the twin trial-runs each option in a few seconds before anything is done for real.
A shift is stitched together from simulation segments (e.g. the first 20 minutes and the 40 minutes after the incident); each segment restarts from the berth, so the total has a margin of error of a few containers. Stage 3 shows the most important point: if the twin assumes the wrong distance, the forecast is wrong and must be calibrated with real measurements (here, a truck's cycle time from GPS).
Stage 4 — data update interval: an incident occurs at minute 20; the twin only learns of it at the first update afterward (every 1, 5 or 15 minutes, or at end of shift) and immediately calls a backup crane, which arrives 15 minutes later. The results show that the required update interval depends on how long a response is still useful, not “the more real-time the better”.
Not calculated: sensor noise and signal loss, random incidents, integration with the terminal operating system (TOS). A real twin needs data infrastructure and continuous calibration — the most labor-intensive part.
Frequently asked questions
How is digital twin different from BIM?
BIM is a model of the facility, used most during design and construction. A digital twin takes that model and adds a continuous stream of operational data and a simulator for forecasting — used throughout the operating life.
Do medium-sized businesses need a digital twin?
A full twin is usually not needed at first. A worthwhile first step is to collect real data (vehicle positions, equipment status, throughput) and build a simple simulation model to test major decisions — just like stages 2 and 3 of the game.
Have real project parameters? Send them to CGD and get feedback on the design scope
This simulation stops at the principle. For a specific project, CGD builds the model on real operating data and floor plan drawings.
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