Model-Based Definition for Non-Rigid Variation Simulation II: Feeding the Digital Twin with Data from the Quality Information Framework (QIF)

Paper in proceeding, 2026

Increasing computing powers, advanced software, and smart technical devices for collecting and processing manufacturing data have turned the Digital Twin (DT) concept into a practical instrument for real-time geometry assurance. However, implementing the DT for geometry assurance in industry requires selecting an appropriate infrastructure that guarantees a seamless flow of geometry and deviation information across design, production, inspection, and variation simulation. The Quality Information Framework (QIF), an inspection-focused standard for Model-Based Definition, can address this challenge and close currently open gaps in the Digital Thread for geometry assurance. This article proposes an operational integration framework that uses QIF to set up the DT for non-rigid variation simulation. An inverse mapping algorithm divides Finite Element meshes into subsets representing the QIF features in variation simulation. The identified features connect the simulation model with the measurement information, which is directly embedded in QIF and linked to the features. Measured size, location, orientation, and form deviations of a batch of parts are exchanged collectively via QIF, automatically mapped on shell meshes, and used for DT applications without losing the link to the physical counterparts. An exemplary implementation of the framework and its application to find optimal part matching for a sheet metal assembly emphasizes the potential of QIF for feeding the DT.