Since 2009 ebm-papst has been networking production processes with SAP ME (Manufacturing Execution). In communication between production machines and the higher-level SAP ME, the product to be manufactured is identified uniquely, data is requested in an autonomous continuous request-response process, and production steps are initiated. Production is thus managed and monitored continuously on a central system from start to finish. Any manufacturing problems can be identified and resolved immediately. All production steps can be tracked because the data is collected and stored centrally. The digitisation of production allows processes to be optimised, monitored and made more transparent. That means user-friendly user interfaces, almost entirely paperless production, support for lean processes, adherence to and verification of the process sequence, assured use of the correct, fault-free materials, traceability and process data capture. To further optimise the application, ebm-papst works closely with SAP as a member of the customer council.
"We are taking an evolutionary approach to Industry 4.0 and learning to exploit the communication potential of machinery and systems throughout the company. Every EC product is capable of the communication required by Industry 4.0. A fan can thus be controlled at all times using an app, for example. At the same time, as far as our own production processes are concerned, we laid the foundations for the future some time ago. We are thus something of a model company when it comes to SAP ME, a software application that controls the productivity of machinery and systems and helps to reduce lead times."
