From PC to AI Through Digital Twins - A glance into the Race for Technological Ideology

¹ General Engineering Research Institute, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Liverpool John Moores University, Byrom Street, Liverpool, L3 3AF, United Kingdom
² Rzeszow University of Technology, Rzeszow, Poland
³ Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, India
⁴ Rajamangala University of Technology Krungthep, Bangkok, Thailand

^* Corresponding author: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Published online: 2 March 2026

Abstract

This paper examines the history of human industrial endeavours, along with key milestones in terms of industrial revolutions. Building upon these advances, Japan's Society 5.0 envisions a human-centric, super-smart society where digital innovation harmonises with social well-being. This progression reflects not only technological evolution but also a deepening integration of innovation with human value. This work discusses key directives put forward by different countries and associated plans of action for implementing these directives. It explores the European exclusive view of "Industry 4.0" and provides a brief overview of the intersection of two key technologies for “Industry 4.0”, artificial intelligence and digital twins. It brings in the notion of “Society 5.0”, “Super Smart Society” and discusses the evolution of Digital Twins and Artificial Intelligence.