In Brief

Publications Pictures of the Future Fall 2002

Industry

Innovation and design cycles are growing ever shorter. Companies must therefore produce more rapidly and flexibly to remain competitive. The complete digitization of factory data will make a higher degree of automation and flexibility possible
The digital factory is a scaleable geometric representation of the real thing. Its contents, configuration and processes can be depicted in moving, 3D realtime images. Planning can be conducted on a virtual level
Simulations allow processes to be visualized and optimized. Everyone, including suppliers and customers, can gain detailed insight into manufacturing processes well before production begins. Time-consuming adjustments due to planning errors are thus eliminatedand often prototypes as well, which can lead to enormous savings
Siemens is working on all aspects of the implementation of the digital factory. Software tools still need to be standardized to ensure comprehensive networking
Machines or entire facilities can be controlled, optimized or serviced via the Internet. Siemens researchers in Princeton are developing a voice-controlled system offering online maintenance assistance
Increasing computing power makes it possible to outfit machines, sensors and actuators with ever-more complex features. Together with embedded software, such decentralized intelligence increases production flexibility. Neural networks can optimize processes even further
Transponders are a key element in production and logistics. Inside are chips that store data used for controling manufacturing lines. In the future, simple printing techniques will be used to produce extremely inexpensive plastic transponders
The chemical industry is moving toward a fab-on-a-chip with the help of microreaction technology and automated control. Siemens is developing suitable sensors for such applications