Digital Twin Prototype for an Automated Post-Processing Chain in Additive Manufacturing

This paper details the implementation and evaluation of a digital twin (DT) prototype designed to optimize the automated post-processing chain in additive manufacturing (AM). With the increasing complexity of AM processes, manual post-processing has become a bottleneck, requiring skilled labor and resulting in extended production times. The automation of the post-processing chain can be enabled and optimized using DTs. The implemented DT prototype integrates a comprehensive architecture built upon the ISO 23247 framework. The development follows the DT V-model, and the implementation involves middleware that facilitates the communication between physical components and their digital representations. The created prototype was evaluated with industry stakeholders. The evaluation showed improvements in processing efficiency and cost reduction. It also provides industry stakeholders with valuable insights for the development and integration of DTs in AM, as well as enhanced adaptability, allowing for adjustments in real-time based on production variations. Furthermore, the results highlight the necessity for enhanced data management and the adoption of standardized interfaces to overcome existing challenges in DT implementation.