Periodic Reporting for period 1 - AutoPro (An adaptive system for modular automotive production to boost efficiency and reduce manufacturing cost.)
Reporting period: 2017-08-01 to 2017-11-30
Since the early 1900's, production lines have been built to cater to the needs of standardisation. Living in the era of mass customisation, new requirements have appeared, and with them, the need for a new industrial revolution, the need for Modular Production. arculus are addressing this issue by developing software and automated guided vehicles (AGV) to enable a flexible, smart, and independent-modules-based production system. The proposed solution is important as it will facilitate a more cost-effective production helping manufacturers to more easily meet the increasing individualisation of customer needs. The overall objectives of the project are to finalise development of the AGV and software product, demonstrate its usefulness with end users, and communicate the results to relevant stakeholders.
During the Feasibility Study arculus carried out a complete analysis of the technical and business potential of the innovation. Throughout the duration of the project, arculus expanded its knowledge of industries where its solution would be most accepted, business models, and in particular the European market. A business model and commercialisation plan was developed to facilitate the product having a significant commercial impact once ready for the market. During the Phase 1 Project, arculus continued its exploitation and dissemination activities to raise awareness about the project. arculus attended Hello Tomorrow where the COO participated in a pitch competition and won the 1st prize for Industry 4.0.
Identifying the need for more adaptable production, arculus has developed a new ICT integrated solution to streamline automotive production processes. It consists of smart AGVs to transport products and material, and arculus’ control software to optimise workstation operations. The main benefits beyond the state of the art are more streamlined custom-product production, cost-effective material flow management for multi-variant production systems, and increased control and regulation of production. The project addresses important challenges related to future intelligent manufacturing, and will help to reduce the overall cost of production and increase product choice, enhancing the competitiveness of manufacturers which will result in higher value products for consumers.