Bridging the Gap: A Framework for Structuring the Asset Administration Shell in Digital Twin Implementation for Industry 4.0

The digital twin is a core technology for implementing Industry 4.0 scenarios in scientific and industrial applications. One upcoming variant of the digital twin is the concept of the asset administration shell, representing an approach to standardization. This approach must be adapted to specific use cases and applied in a target-oriented manner. However, no comprehensive guidance exists on structuring and implementing asset administration shells based on the digital twin in manufacturing environments. This issue pertains to defining and organizing the relevant data and mapping domain-specific limitations and characteristics within the hierarchical structure of the asset administration shell's components. This paper introduces an approach to structuring the asset administration shell to address this gap. This approach capitalizes on domain-specific expertise, industry standards, and established best practices, providing a framework. We validate the presented approach by applying it to the use case of distributed high-rate electrolyser production. The overarching objective of this research is to bridge the gap between theoretical concepts and practical applications.