Digital twin technology is when a virtual representation of a physical object, system or environment is created to conduct virtual testing through digital simulation.
Digital twin technology and virtual testing are advanced techniques designed to enhance the performance of Canada's aerospace value chain through innovation, to accelerate product development and to reduce the cost of maintenance and life-cycle management.
These techniques provide an unparalleled opportunity to take advantage of the recent progress made in the fields of AI and machine learning.
Our expertise
To support Canada's industry in meeting its performance goals, the NRC's Aerospace Research Centre is using its unique R&D capabilities to meet the following objectives:
- Develop and demonstrate advanced structural, aerodynamic and flight digital twin and virtual testing technologies, including multi-physics modelling and physics-embedded AI and machine learning methods
- Develop and apply innovative and efficient testing technologies to support the development and certification of modern aeronautical products and new configurations
- Support facility renewal with advanced capabilities of digital twin modelling, digital thread, advanced sensing and virtual testing
The work done at our Aerospace Research Centre focuses on carrying out research with our strategic partners on revolutionary technologies in 4 R&D and innovation pillars:
- Aircraft structural digital twins
- Certification by analysis and innovative testing technologies
- Digital twins for flight virtual simulation and testing
- Smarter wind tunnel testing
Cross-cutting themes for the 4 pillars:
- Modelling and simulation
- Physical–digital interaction
- Modelling–testing integration
Facilities and labs
The NRC's facilities and labs can help you develop, test and validate your technologies. Learn more about our capabilities in digital twin and virtual testing:
- Research on aerospace structures and materials performance
- Structural full-scale aerospace testing
- Research aircraft for testing and demonstration
Wind tunnel facilities:
Success stories
Learn more about our significant milestones and accomplishments in the field of digital twin and virtual testing:
- The National Research Council of Canada shortens time to aeronautical product certification
- The NRC's expertise sought after to improve aircraft safety under rare icing conditions
- Making aviation safer with NRC icing research
- Supporting the evolution of the defence and security industry through innovation
- The NRC representing Canada on the world stage in aviation research
Why work with us
Our specialized advisory services range from testing and certification to calibration, prototyping, demonstrations, scale-up and consulting. With our experts and facilities dedicated to aerospace technologies, we provide services to help you work through digital twin and virtual testing:
- Collaborative R&D: In a joint effort, our research expertise can help you advance your R&D projects
- Technical services: Our technical expertise can help you test and mature your technology and take it to the next level
Contact us
Business Development team
Aerospace Research Centre