In our "Three questions for..." series, we interview selected personalities on various topics. Among other things, the questions address topics discussed by the interviewees in the form of keynote speeches or other activities as part of the "Circular Materials - Digitalization and Sustainability" congress organized by Bayern Innovativ.
Today we are interviewing Peter Stich, Factory Expert for Digital Factory and Automated Production at the University of Applied Sciences Kempten.
Mr. Stich, how can digital technologies drive forward sustainable materials and resource-efficient processes?
The optimization of production processes requires technical aids due to the increased complexity. This is the only way to reduce resource requirements in production in the long term. One example is the simulation of processes and workflows in order to improve resource utilization and avoid downtimes (also in retrofit projects).
How can digital technologies and artificial intelligence be used in retrofit projects to make older infrastructures fit for the future?
Connecting existing machines to modern IT infrastructures is an important task in order to be able to continue using operational processes and machines. This is how existing production can be raised to an IoT-capable level. Smart IoT gateways enable a cost-efficient connection. In combination with intelligent data evaluation, a wealth of information can be obtained from the existing systems for optimization and planning.
In which industrial sectors do you see the greatest potential for retrofit strategies, and why?
The resource-intensive manufacturing and process industry certainly has the greatest potential here, as the modernization of existing systems can quickly pay for itself. In addition, a retrofit often offers advantages over a new investment in plant and machinery in terms of investment volume.
Thank you very much for the interview, Prof. Dr.-Ing.
The optimization of production processes requires technical aids due to the increased complexity. This is the only way to reduce resource requirements in production in the long term.
Prof. Dr.-Ing. Peter Stich
Digital Factory | Automated Production at the University of Applied Sciences Kempten
