Implementation of Inter-Factory Connectivity for Demand-Oriented Data Analysis and Visualization

Multi-factory production boosts the global competitiveness of manufacturing companies. However, incompatible IT systems and limited information sharing hinder inter-factory communication. This paper presents case study on developing a technical solution for data exchange and analysis along a multi-factory production following a process model based on a value stream-oriented analysis of information needs. As a result, a demonstrator across three factory facilities is built, encompassing a traceability terminal, 3D printing, milling, and assembly processes, seamlessly integrated with an Internet of Things (IoT) platform offering diverse demand-oriented services. Subsequently, the multi-factory demonstrator is evaluated in production.