Cranfield University researchers have developed a standardized framework for digital twins, specifically tailored for the transport sector. This initiative adapts the existing ISO-23247 standard, which was originally designed for manufacturing, to address the unique complexities of transport decarbonisation across road, rail, air, and maritime operations. The new framework integrates a wide array of elements, including vehicles, infrastructure, energy systems, operational data, climate factors, and human decision-making processes, into a cohesive digital environment. Its primary objectives are to enhance emissions monitoring and improve energy efficiency throughout the transport network.
For freight forwarders and logistics professionals, this development signifies a potential shift towards more transparent and optimized supply chains. The ability to monitor emissions and energy consumption in real-time across different transport modes could facilitate better route planning, carrier selection, and overall carbon footprint management. While direct impacts on rates or capacity are not immediate, the framework could eventually lead to more efficient operations and compliance with future environmental regulations, potentially influencing operational costs and service offerings.
