2025-01-TWIN-TRANSITION-05: Searching for project partners

Adaptive Production Line with Mobile Autonomous Devices (APLMAD)

1. Basic Concept:

The primary idea of the project is to develop a concept and a set number of devices (depending on the needs of project partners and the scope of funding) for an adaptive production line based on autonomous, flexible, and mobile production units. The core of this adaptive production line is easy reconfigurability, allowing for quick adjustments or setups in response to unforeseen production issues or the need to rapidly switch to manufacturing a new product, whether driven by market demands or the introduction of personalized, customer-specific products. This adaptive production line integrates multiple advanced technologies that enable high flexibility and efficiency in diverse manufacturing environments. Each mobile device is equipped with modular subsystems that allow for rapid integration of various technologies, such as optical and sensor-based quality control, flexible robotic handling of products and tools, AI-driven detection and decision-making, cold plasma solutions, and additive manufacturing technologies. The overall efficiency and functionality of the adaptive production line are ensured by advanced control technologies that connect all necessary subsystems into a unified operational system.

2. Autonomous Mobile Production Devices:

   These devices are the core of the adaptive line and incorporate the following technologies:

   • Control Systems: Advanced control systems enable autonomous devices to navigate independently and adjust production parameters based on the requirements.

   • Robotics: Robotic units integrated with mobile devices facilitate manipulation, assembly, and other automated processes.

   • Optical and Sensor-Based Quality Control: Built-in sensors and cameras enable real-time product quality monitoring, defect detection, and ensuring the high quality of the final products.

   • Cold Plasma: Cold plasma technology allows for sterilization, surface treatment, and enhancement of material properties without heating the products.

   • Artificial Intelligence (AI): Mobile devices are equipped with AI systems that enable learning and operational adaptation based on collected data and analysis.

   • Additive Manufacturing (3D Printing): The devices incorporate additive manufacturing capabilities, enabling rapid production and prototyping of components.

   • Industry 4.0: Integration of Industry 4.0 technologies, such as IoT and advanced automation, facilitates comprehensive data collection, system interconnectivity, and the integration of data-driven solutions for better control and optimization of the production line.

3. Digital Twins and Simulation Model:

   To efficiently design and optimize the production line, a virtual simulation model must be developed, including:

   • Digital Twin of the Entire System: A digital twin allows for the simulation and optimization of the entire production process, providing insights into workflow and spatial layout, improving planning, performance monitoring, and early detection of potential issues.

   • Digital Twins of Individual Components: Each device and component will have its own digital twin, enabling precise condition monitoring and early detection of deviations, which allows for the introduction of predictive maintenance concepts and operational optimization.

4. Data Infrastructure and Digital Agents:
   The system will include a robust data infrastructure for data acquisition and processing, allowing for:

   • Real-time data collection from all devices and sensors within the system.

   • Data analysis using AI-based digital agents for optimizing production processes, predicting maintenance needs, and adjusting operations based on collected data.

5. IIoT Platform for Management:
   An IIoT platform will be essential for managing the system, allowing for:

   • Monitoring and control of all mobile devices, components, and systems.

   • Communication between devices and data synchronization between digital twins and the IIoT network.

   • Integration with MES (Manufacturing Execution Systems) and ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) systems for full connectivity between business processes and production, ensuring comprehensive management and optimization of production.