Analysis and Design of a Cyber-Physical Production System (CPPS) in Sensor Manufacturing. A Case Study

Abstract

Cyber-Physical Production Systems (CPPS) combine methods of artificial intelligence with robotics, new ways of man-machine-man collaboration, and the “Internet of Things (IoT)” [1]. They create opportunities for individualized, one-piece-flow, and flexible manufacturing and assembly processes in tomorrow’s manufacturing plants.

In this case study, a new production system for the assembly of sensors in a small/medium sized enterprise (SME) has been designed, implemented, and evaluated. As a method, the “complementary design of complex man-machine systems” [2, 3] has been used, adapted and expanded.

The results show that manufacturing processes in CPPS

• allow for more self-regulation and self-organization in semi-autonomous production teams,

• create higher complexity and dynamics in the work process,

• require more collaboration, communication and problem-solving skills of the operators,

• enable new ways of man-machine-man collaboration, and

• can significantly increase the productivity and quality of manufactured goods.

The case study has been carried out as part of the research project “PRÄDIKATSARBEIT” (“Work of Excellence”), sponsored by the Federal Ministry of Research and Higher Education of Germany (Grant No. 02L14A093). The results shall be shared in the IEA community to promote new ways of man-machine-man collaboration in the “Industry 4.0”. For more information about CPPS and manufacturing in digitally inter-connected production cells see [1, 4, 5].