3 questions for Thomas Bauernhansl on the Expertise “Umsetzung von cyber-physischen Matrix-produktionssystemen”
Bild: © Rainer Bez
Munich, 20 July 2022
1. What advantages do cyber-physical matrix production systems offer compared to other production systems?
Matrix production systems are beneficial throughout the entire life cycle of a production system, starting with the design and commissioning of the system. Due to the modular nature, these can be done step by step. During the operational phase, the big advantage of matrix production systems is that they resolve the dichotomy between flexibility and productivity of classic production systems. Classic workshop production, for example, is designed for flexibility, but is usually not very productive. Scheduled lines, on the other hand, are very productive but not very flexible.
The matrix production approach makes it possible to connect both worlds based on modularity and automated, optimising order and material flow control. In addition, we see the ability to change tactically via reconfiguration as an essential property of matrix production. This allows it to continuously adapt to changing production programs. In addition, new technologies can easily be integrated and connected via the flexible material flow.
2. What role do these technologies play with regard to Industrie 4.0?
It is precisely the technologies that have emerged around Industrie 4.0 that enable the cyber-physical component of matrix production and ensure their economic operation. Intelligent systems optimise the material flow and control the process modules. Autonomous driverless transport systems carry out the transport of products and raw materials. Assistance systems support workers in mastering the increasing complexity. Human-machine collaboration combines the skills of workers and robots. In the digital twin, scenarios are simulated, and optimisation opportunities are identified.
All of these applications require systems for recording and processing data. This makes it clear how essential Industrie 4.0 technologies are for operating matrix production systems. At the same time, end customers are becoming increasingly involved in value creation.
3. What opportunities and challenges do you see in implementing cyber-physical matrix production systems?
The introduction of matrix production systems is made easier if standardised processes have already been introduced in the core areas. In addition, high data quality in master and transaction data is an advantage. A certain affinity and openness on the part of the company for Industrie 4.0 technologies is also helpful. In addition, our expertise on matrix production systems shows that so far mainly corporations are concerned with the introduction of matrix production systems or have already introduced them.
These companies have largely developed the necessary technologies themselves. This suggests that smaller companies are deterred by the supposedly high development and investment costs. But matrix production can be particularly interesting for SMEs, as they often produce customer-specific products in small quantities and therefore need flexible and adaptable production.
The opportunities and potential that lie in the use of matrix production can be recognised from the good practices described in the expertise. They show that the companies were able to achieve significant improvements in the key figures they prioritised. We were also able to identify different development paths towards matrix production. Companies usually implement matrix production step by step.
The Expertise “Umsetzung von cyber-physischen Matrix-produktionssystemen” can be found here (in German).