The advent of digital twins in surface mining: Its time has finally arrived

The weaknesses of conventional simulations and ever-increasing capabilities offered by technological trends have compressed the spring of the surface mining industry for a giant leap towards Mining 4.0. Dynamicity and autonomy are two features that ordinary simulation models fail to address. That's why the Digital Twin concept is taking center stage nowadays and appears to hold the key to the mines of the future, wherein real-time data exchange and cognitive decision-making govern. In the present research, we first provide a comprehensive review of simulation applications in surface mining to identify pertinent merits and demerits. Following that, the concept of twinning is dissected, and some industrial frameworks are perused to get more insights. Next, an exemplary six-layer architecture for Digital Twin in surface mines is unveiled to serve as a roadmap for the occurrence of the fourth industrial revolution in the mineral industry. Finally, yet importantly, challenges and opportunities regarding this disruptive technology are expounded. •A retrospective review of the simulation history in surface mining.•Mapping pros and cons of conventional simulations and the need for new solutions.•Expounding on the concept of Digital Twin as a key enabler of Industry 4.0.•Investigating pioneering industries for gaining insights.•Developing a paradigmatic architecture for Digital-Twin-integrated mining.