Implementation of AI systems in the metal processing industry (small and medium sized production)

Desired outcome

We are looking for opportunities to implement AI systems in production processes, which would increase efficiency, reliability and quality of production processes, simultaneously achieve rationalization of existing processes with the common goal of improving OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness).

Initial Problem Description

Our production processes are mainly carried out in the scale of small and medium batch production.
The challenge is how to fulfil all customer orders as efficiently as possible, while at the same time achieving a high level of quality and OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness).
At the same time, we face the challenges of frequent shortages of tools on individual machines and technologies.
We are looking for solutions to upgrade all described segments of the entire production process with the help of AI.

Context

Optimization and digitization of production processes with the aim of improving OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness). We want to improve the reliability and quality of production, achieve waste reduction, implement predictive maintenance, quality system, smart automation and nevertheless, reduce the burden on our engineers, who spend a lot of time on production management.
Furthermore, we want to optimize the processes of changing tools on individual machines and automated lines with the aim of achieving higher productivity.

Connection to cross-cutting areas

Our challenge is closely related to the field of Industry 4.0 and digitalization, the main goals of which are to optimize, automate and digitize production processes of manufacturing and product development as well. We want to implement AI systems in production processes and rationalize the existing processes. Our common goal is improving the OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness) which will make our business even more aligned with the principles of circularity and general sustainability.

Input

HERMI never loses sight of sustainable development when it comes to environmental protection (reduced energy consumption, use of clean energy and renewable resources).
With this orientation we want to integrate AI technologies into production processes with a goal of achieving enhancing efficiency, reducing costs, increased flexibility and driving innovation.

Expectations

We expect proposals for AI implementation solutions in production processes that will improve productivity for our small and medium batch production.
Our goal is to optimize processes, improve product quality and reduce production costs.
We would like to focus on the area of ​​efficiency, failure prediction, periodic maintenance and waste reduction.

Desired Team Profile

Desired knowledge is in the field of mechanical and mechatronics engineering, production technologies, robotization, automation and digitization of processes.
We are looking for a dynamic team of engineers with knowledge on the field of AI integration into production processes in a different fields.
Desirable are also analytical skills with aim of assesing the tehnological and economic justification of the preposed solutions.

Additional Information

HERMI is a manufacturing company with a long tradition of producing products in the field of lightning protection, surge protection, cable tray systems and mounting systems for solar power plants.
In Hermi management platform we already use the following systems in our production: ERP, MES, WMS, Digital Twins for planning, Machine Monitoring, PIM, ETIM, Power BI.
We look forward to working with students who bring fresh and innovative ideas into the field of AI integration in the production processes.

Related Keywords

• Industrial Technologies
• Process Plant Engineering
• Digitalization