Schaeffler says it has signed a multi-year strategic partnership agreement with IBM to accelerate the digital transformation of its entire operations and customer solutions using Watson’s cognitive intelligence and insight from billions of sensors that make up the Internet of Things (IoT).
Schaeffler manufactures millions of precision-engineered products that help to keep the world’s machines moving, from those that go into automotive clutch systems, to those in hybrid engines and the huge industrial bearings used in wind turbines. Through the agreement, Schaeffler will tap IBM’s cloud-based Watson IoT technologies to help transform every aspect of its business from product development, through to manufacturing and its supply chain, sales and aftersales service.
Go deeper with GlobalData
Advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, cloud computing and the Internet of Things are driving increased connectivity and automation across the manufacturing industry. At the same time, engineering companies like Schaeffler are pioneering the development of innovative ‘mechatronic’ solutions which combine mechanical, electronic and software capabilities into individual components and systems which have the ability to monitor, report and manage their own performance.
“This is an era of unprecedented industrial transformation defined by factories, machines and parts capable of self-assessing, triggering actions and exchanging information with each other, and with the people who manufacture and maintain them,” said Harriet Green, general manager, IBM Watson IoT. “Schaeffler is leading the way and literally redefining approaches for designing, producing and maintaining machines, making them safer and more reliable.”
As a partner for its digital reinvention, Schaeffler has turned to IBM. The goal is to build virtual models representing entire industrial systems enabling new approaches to product design, manufacturing and aftersales service. Tapping the connectivity and analytics capabilities of IBM’s Watson IoT platform, Schaeffler will analyse huge amounts of data from millions of sensors and devices across its operations and provide insight to help it to be more flexible, make faster decisions and optimise the performance of equipment in the field.
“Our goal is to be the world’s leading manufacturer of cognitive solutions which keep the world moving,” said Prof. Dr.-Ing. Peter Gutzmer, deputy CEO and chief technology officer, Schaeffler “We are entering an age where parts can monitor and evaluate their own performance and even order their own replacement when necessary. Schaeffler is a world leader in product development and manufacturing, IBM in hybrid cloud and cognitive computing; through this partnership we are ushering the new industrial era.”
How well do you really know your competitors?
Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.
Thank you!
Your download email will arrive shortly
Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample
We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form
By GlobalDataTo respond to increasing levels of automation and machine complexity, Schaeffler has invested significantly into the research and development of mechatronic products with embedded sensors, actuators, control units and software capable of collecting and processing valuable data about the condition of both the part and the machine. Tapping IBM’s cognitive computing and research capabilities, Schaeffler plans to further accelerate this work with the vision of producing safer, more reliable and efficient systems for its automotive and industrial customers.
“IBM’s Watson IoT platform is designed to foster collaborative innovation,” said Juergen Henn, executive partner, IBM global business services. “With a hybrid cloud environment based on open standards, it is easy to integrate data and systems from third parties and public sources, helping to establish a digital eco-system with customers and partners. Together, Schaeffler and IBM are applying the latest design thinking and agile methodologies to drive business model innovation and achieve operational excellence.”
Schaeffler says it is leading the way in the development and manufacturing of products for engine, transmission and chassis applications. New technologies will allow Schaeffler to extend the functionality and lifespan of components for the automotive industry. Real time analytics and cognitive systems will turn data from components and systems into valuable insight which can be used by manufacturers to increase the reliability of cars and offer new value-added services to customers.
Industry 4.0 for tooling machines
IBM’s cognitive technologies will support Schaeffler’s Industry 4.0 strategy for tooling machines helping to improve overall equipment efficiency (OEE). This includes the optimisation of production processes, real time analysis of data and context-driven maintenance, networking and optimisation of multiple machines within a production line. The objective is to continuously optimise production and supply chain. Focus is on internal optimisation to increase efficiency and to leverage this for the creation of new service offerings for customers and partners.
Connected equipment operations centre
Experts are monitoring the condition of thousands of machines and pieces of equipment on and off site. Big Data is transmitted to the operation centre and processed in the Schaeffler cloud. Algorithms and cognitive approaches will analyse data helping to make predictions about machine performance and create opportunities for optimisation. Irregularities and potential faults are automatically identified and corresponding actions rapidly initiated.
