Case Study | Supply Chain - Digitized manufacturing becomes real

Challenge: 

The global market is setting new standards for a smarter supply chain. A Stuttgart-based car manufacturer wanted to lead the way in terms of digitalization and RFID as a basic infrastructure technology in its factory introduce. The aim was to define the plant of the future and transform its production into a digitalized factory. In order to realize this vision, it was also important to integrate the suppliers right from the start. For the automotive suppliers, the use of RFID technology was to be a decisive criterion in the competition for future orders. Through a smarter supply chain with new tools and valid insights in real time reliability should be created. This supply chain then improves collaboration and achieves an unprecedented level of transparency.

Initial situation: Supply chain management before

The logistical challenges were traditionally solved using barcode-supported systems. The aim was that the Companies in the automotive sector are replacing the old barcode structure with specially modified RFID tags. These radio-readable information carriers were intended to automate localization and identification along the entire supply and marketing chain. The German Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA) described and defined this years ago with "RFID for tracking parts and assemblies in the automotive industry". Up to 65 percent of the value of goods or services in a company is created through collaboration with suppliers. This is according to the "Cross-Industry Report of Standard Benchmarks" by CAPS Research. Functioning, Intelligent supply chains are therefore a decisive factor for the successful digital transformation of a company. What counts is speed, a complete overview of complex processes and, of course, maximum focus on the customer.

Solution: RFID hardware components

The car manufacturer relies on the Use of certified RFID hardware components from Kathrein Solutionsas well as a proven software solution for simple and reliable supplier integration. All relevant positions in the supply chain of the "RFID end-to-end process" were equipped with certified RFID hardware. In some cases, this was even specially adapted. Simple installation and effective maintenance of the components were required and were implemented accordingly. Process safety, reliability and cost-effectiveness were the focus throughout the entire design process. All recording components were linked together using standard software to enable a simple and stable data connection. At the heart of the concept is the "intelligent load carrier". These load carriers are all already shipped with RFID tags and unique identification numbers. Both Sorting in the crossdock, as well as transportation, is carried out using RFID supported. Automatic identification in the supply chain takes place wherever it is technically feasible and relevant to the process. This also applies to incoming and outgoing goods. Storage and retrieval, loading of route trolleys and supply to the assembly line are largely controlled and documented automatically. Even the empties on the assembly line are automatically recorded on the shelf using special KanBan antennas to enable automatic material retrieval.

Result: The supply chain can go digital!

IoT digitalization was implemented efficiently and practically in the supply chain. Standardized RFID technology was adapted to specific requirements in partnership with Kathrein Solutions. For example, the automated KanBan shelf was implemented effectively and cost-efficiently in the system landscape. Here, an automobile manufacturer used the Perfect template for digitized manufacturing of the future and proved once again that innovation means progress. The initial goal of defining an automotive production plant of the future was achieved. Smooth, predictable throughputs and a reduction in waiting times have been successfully and significantly improved in the logistics process.

 

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Case Study | Supply Chain - Digitized manufacturing becomes real