Experience the advantages of digitalisation and create effective usage of data

In response to the escalating demand for establishing structured and cohesive connections between tangible and virtual assets, the AMC Testbed addresses the imperative to link data systems such as PLM, ERP, and CAD with machines on both the shop floor and remote locations. The overarching goal is to showcase the seamless integration of machines and the visualization of operational information, ultimately fostering the generation of effective usage data.

The AMC Testbed is designed as a dynamic factory shop floor featuring diverse machines and demonstrators. This unique environment allows companies to actively engage with and evaluate the benefits of digitalization by experimenting with their innovative concepts before implementing them within their own factory settings.

The three primary objectives were defined as follows:

Enhancing machine connectivity and data visualisation
Effective use of digital and physical resources
Real environment testing

Industry partners

APPROACH

The main focus of the project was to construct a comprehensive framework for machine connectivity, whether locally or remotely, while seamlessly integrating data systems like PLM, ERP, and CAD. Leveraging the state-of-the-art facilities at the Advanced Manufacturing Centre, the consortium executed tests within a realistic environment, allowing for the validation of concepts before transitioning to individual shop floors.

This process commenced with a thorough assessment of the existing production technology and the digital platform in place. Subsequently, the physical and digital platforms were intricately linked, and a test scenario was devised to utilize the current technology. The proposed solution was then visually presented for enhanced user comprehension.

OUTCOME

The project successfully achieved the harmonious integration of physical production technology with a digital platform. Real data was instrumental in fuelling test scenarios within the digital ‘shop floor’ of the AMC Testbed. The selection of diverse machines facilitated the demonstration of innovative concepts, priming them for seamless application in authentic manufacturing environments. The tangible outcomes encompassed heightened production capacity, cost reductions, and improved future production planning capabilities.

The AMC offers opportunities to:

Provide options on how to connect your machines
Upgrade older machines to provide useful digital data
Establish a roadmap towards digitalising your shop floor
Get the best out of your existing machine tools

“The collaboration between us and the FIP-AM@UT have been excellent. We’ve gained valuable insights and knowledge, fostering a dynamic exchange that allows us to collectively enhance and improve the project. It’s been a mutually beneficial, two-way partnership.”

– Eric Klement
Director Sales, Smart Production Solutions

For more information on AMC Testbed, feel free to reach out to

Barry te Dorsthorst

Research Engineer

Cheng Guo

Research Engineer

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