DIGITAL TWINS


is now converging with digital twin technology. High-fidelity, immersive digital replicas of factories allow engineers to walk through production lines virtually, identify bottlenecks, and experiment with layout changes. Bühler, a leading food processing equipment provider, has been exploring virtual factory environments where engineers can simulate processing conditions for confectionery, from mixing to extrusion and packaging. “Digital twins combined with


immersive 3D visualisation enable us to optimise production lines in ways previously unimaginable,” explains Dr. Tobias Meier, Senior Systems Engineer at Bühler Group. “For confectionery, even minor changes in equipment spacing or flow direction can have a significant impact on throughput and product quality. Virtual modelling helps us get it right the first time.”


DIGITAL TWINS ALLOW US TO UNDERSTAND HOW EVERY PART OF THE PRODUCTION PROCESS INTERACTS,” – MARCUS SCHNEIDER, SIEMENS


first collaboration with Siemens and NVIDIA. Using high-fidelity digital twin technology and artificial intelligence, the company is bringing virtual modelling into its core production and supply chain operations. While PepsiCo produces a wide portfolio of foods and beverages, many operational challenges mirror those in confectionery production—from chocolate enrobing lines to gummy and baked treat facilities. PepsiCo is leveraging Siemens’


Digital twins in action One of the most significant demonstrations of digital twin impact in industrial manufacturing came at CES 2026, where global consumer goods giant PepsiCo unveiled an industry-


Digital Twin Composer, built on NVIDIA Omniverse libraries, to convert select manufacturing and logistics sites into detailed 3D virtual replicas. These models integrate engineering specifications, live operational data, and simulation tools, enabling engineers to test hundreds of scenarios before implementing any physical changes. “Digital twins allow us to understand how every part of the production process interacts,” explains


MARCH 2026 • KENNEDY’S CONFECTION • 27


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