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How Smart Manufacturing Is Powered by Digital Twin Technology?

SMART_MANUFACTURING
A digital twin is a virtual model of an object or system that comprises its lifecycle. It is updated with real-time data and aids decision-making through simulation, machine learning, and reasoning for the production system.

IoT sensor data from the original object is used to create a digital twin of the system. This cloud-connected data allows engineers to monitor systems and model system dynamics in real-time.

Modifications can be tested on the digital twin before making changes to the original system.

Considering that digital twins are supposed to replicate a product's complete lifecycle and are used throughout the production process, it's not unexpected that digital twins have become prevalent in all stages of manufacturing.

“More than a blueprint or schematic, a digital twin combines a real-time simulation of system dynamics with a set of executive controls,”

– Dr. Daniel Araya, consultant and advisor with a special interest in artificial intelligence, technology policy, and governance

Companies will increasingly embrace digital twins to boost productivity and decrease expenses. As per recent research by Research and Markets, nearly 36% of executives across industries recognize the benefits of digital twinning, with half planning to implement it by 2028.So how does this digital twin technology benefit modern manufacturing? Let's have a look.


How the Digital Twin Drives Smart Manufacturing

Digital twins in manufacturing are used to replicate production systems. Manufacturers can develop virtual representations of real-world products, equipment, processes, or systems using data from sensors connected to machines, tools, and other devices.
In manufacturing, such simulations assist in monitoring and adapting equipment performance in real-time. With machine learning techniques, digital twins can predict future events and anticipate potential difficulties.

For maintenance, digital twins allow for quick detection of any problems. They collect real-time system data, prior failure data, and relevant maintenance data. The technique employs machine learning and artificial intelligence to predict maintenance requirements. Using this data, companies can avoid production downtime.


Digital Twin and Artificial Intelligence (AI) in manufacturing

Using digital twins and AI in production can enhance uptime by predicting potential failures and keeping equipment working smoothly. In addition, there are significant cost savings in the planning and design process as digital twins and AI can be used to replicate a specific scenario.

Maintenance is another area that has seen significant progress with the use of digital twin manufacturing. A Digital Twin powered by AI can predict when a piece of equipment will fail, allowing you to arrange predictive maintenance that is not simply taking information from OEM manuals but can significantly cut maintenance expenses along with reducing downtime.

Using the digital twin, it is feasible to train virtual workers in high-risk functions, similar to how pilots are trained using flight simulators. It also frees up highly skilled workers to upgrade the plant and streamline operations.


General Electric Created the Most Advanced Digital Twin

General Electric Company (GE) is a multinational business based in Boston that was founded in 1892. It has developed the world's most advanced digital twin, which blends analytic models for power plant components that monitor asset health, wear, and performance with KPIs (Key Performance Indicators) determined by the customer and the organization's objectives. The Digital Twin is powered by PredixTM, an industrial platform built to manage huge amounts of data and run analytic algorithms. General Electric Company provides extra "control knobs" or "dimensionality" that can be utilized to improve the operation of the system or asset modeled with GE Digital Twin.


Final Words

Given the numerous advantages of digital twin manufacturing, the potential for digital twins to be used in manufacturing is virtually endless in the near future. There will be a slew of new advancements in the field of digital twin manufacturing. As a result, digital twins are continually acquiring new skills and capabilities. The ultimate goal of all of these enhancements is to create the insights necessary to improve products and streamline processes in the future.


FAQ


What is a digital twin in manufacturing?

The digital twins could be used to monitor and enhance a production line or perhaps the whole manufacturing process, from product design to production.


How digital twin benefit manufacturers?

Using digital twins to represent products and manufacturing processes, manufacturers can save assembly, installation, and validation time and costs.


What is a digital thread?

A digital twin is a realistic version of a product or system that replicates a company's equipment, controls, workflows, and systems. The digital thread, on the other hand, records a product's life cycle from creation to dissolution.

Spotlight

3D Usher

3D Usher is an online network of low volume manufacturers, designers and post processing units that makes on-demand manufacturing accessible. The user can just go online, and submit a few responses to get their parts manufactured without having to own skills and infrastructure.

OTHER ARTICLES
Industrial 4.0

Best Practices for Successful Digital Transformation in Industry 4.0

Article | September 21, 2023

Navigating the path to success by unveiling the best practices for thriving in Industry 4.0 through successful digital transformation. Embrace the data-driven decision-making and customer-centricity. The pursuit of successful digital transformation has evolved from a business strategy to a business necessity. It is a vital imperative for organizations striving to survive and thrive in an ever-competitive market. Within this paradigm shift, a journey unfolds that transcends the commonplace and ventures into the realms of strategic innovation. This best practices article is not just a standard guide but a roadmap to excellence. Explore the best practices that propel businesses into the forefront of Industry 4.0. Beyond the surface of technology adoption lies a deeper narrative, one of cultural transformation, stakeholder collaboration, and visionary leadership. Delve into the intricacies of data-driven decision-making, the agility that fuels progress, the relentless pursuit of knowledge, and the unwavering commitment to the customer experience. Each of these elements forms a crucial thread in the tapestry of successful digital transformation. Through compelling case studies and real-world examples, draw inspiration from industry leaders who have not merely embraced change but have harnessed it to redefine their future. 1. Make confident decisions with Digital Twin Combining the physical and digital realms enables seamless integration of the entire value chain, from design to production, while optimizing with continuous data flow. A digital enterprise can harness the limitless power of data by obtaining valuable insights to make quick and confident decisions and to produce best-in-class products through efficient production. The Digital Twin approach integrates the entire product lifecycle with the factory and plant lifecycles and performance data. The end result is a continuous, open cycle of product and production optimization. The digital twin is a comprehensive digital representation of a product or process throughout its entire lifecycle. By creating a digital twin, companies can achieve significant value, such as faster time-to-market for new products, improved operational efficiency, reduced defects, and exploring new business models to drive revenue growth. With the digital twin, companies solve physical issues more efficiently by detecting them early on and accurately predicting outcomes. It empowers them to design and build superior products and ultimately enhance customer satisfaction by better serving their needs. By adopting smart architecture design, companies can continuously realize iterative value and benefits at an accelerated pace. Manufacturing, automotive, aviation, and other industries have adopted digital twins to boost productivity and efficiency. By 2025, the manufacturing industry is predicted to reach a market size worth over six billion U.S. dollars. 2. Vertically Network Various Units in Enterprise Vertical integration in a Digital Enterprise involves the convergence of IT and OT (Information Technology and Operational Technology) to enable seamless data flow from the shop floor to the top floor. The vast amount of data generated by field devices and control units on the shop floor is vital in the context of Industry 4.0, where intelligent data utilization and communication are paramount. Vertical integration generates a comprehensive solution by integrating IT systems at various hierarchical manufacturing and production levels. These hierarchical levels include the field level (interface with the production process via sensors), the control level (machine and system regulation), the production process level (to be monitored and controlled), the operations level (production planning and quality management), and the enterprise planning level. Vertical integration allows for improved communication and collaboration across different departments within the organization. This leads to better coordination, streamlined operations, and increased efficiency across the entire manufacturing ecosystem. A study by the Boston Consulting Group found that companies with a high level of vertical integration were 16% more productive than those with a low level of vertical integration. 3. Horizontally Integrate the Processes in Lifecycle The concept of horizontal integration in a Digital Enterprise ensures smooth data flow throughout the entire value chain. This integrated approach enables the digitalization of the complete value chain, spanning from design and production to service and recycling. By establishing seamless horizontal integration, it eliminates information silos and creates connections that encompass all aspects, from product innovation and manufacturing to product usage and beyond. Horizontally integrated companies focus on their core strengths and partner to support the value chain. Horizontal integration helps information flow between plant-level Manufacturing Execution Systems (MESs) when a company's manufacturing sites are spread out. This allows production sites to quickly share manufacturing data, such as unexpected delays, breakdowns, and inventory levels. Automated cooperation is crucial to supply chain integration in both the upstream (production processes and downstream (the process of bringing the finished products to market) supply and logistics chains. The integration lets a corporation automatically switch production duties between locations. A study byMcKinseyfound that companies that engaged in horizontal integration in the digital age saw their market share increase by an average of 10%. 4. Upgrade Digitalization using Automation Automation catalyzes growth by streamlining operations, breaking down silos, and promoting cross-functional collaboration. With reduced errors and increased efficiency, businesses can scale their operations with fewer resources, fostering a climate of innovation. This increased productivity allows employees to focus on more creative and challenging tasks, leading to higher motivation and engagement. Furthermore, automation provides a better customer experience, essential in today's digital-savvy market. By automating processes, businesses ensure quick access to customer information, leading to increased satisfaction. Lowering costs and expenditures is another significance enabling businesses to eliminate waste, save time, and conserve resources by automating data entry, approval workflows, and financial procedures. Additionally, automation enables efficient management of decentralized global teams from a central hub, further contributing to cost savings. Automation aids in enhancing security measures and simplifying compliance procedures. Businesses proactively identify vulnerabilities and ensure compliance with ever-changing regulations by automating data-intensive tasks. 97% of IT managers feel process automation is necessary for digital transformation. 5. Implement Additive Manufacturing The adoption of Additive Manufacturing (AM)technologies has prompted the evolution of innovative business models that emphasize environmental perspectives. AM has emerged as a transformative solution within the smart manufacturing industry, offering numerous advantages, such as improved labor, energy, and material optimization, enabling companies to respond to changing market demands effectively. AM is particularly time-saving and cost-effective for small-batch complex geometries products, allowing for non-traditional mass customization and shortening the product development cycle. It encourages changes in sustainable business models, including integrating recycled materials, increasing component attributes, and enhancing product lifecycle. AM’s sustainable benefits have garnered significant attention, focusing on reducing waste, optimizing material consumption, and shortening supply chains. Using layer-by-layer production, AM is considered less wasteful than traditional subtractive methods. It also facilitates the creation of products with extended lifecycles through repair, refurbishment, and remanufacturing, promoting sustainability and environmental responsibility. Study data estimates that the cost savings that can be achieved with Industry 4.0 transformations is 50%. 6. Choose the Appropriate Technology The success of digital transformation endeavors hinges on the careful selection of technologies to invest in. Avoid investing in the latest technology just for the sake of digitization, and refrain from rushing into numerous significant changes simultaneously, which may overwhelm employees. Instead, opt to gradually replace legacy systems and synchronize technology with business objectives through the implementation of new procedures. Here’s what Airbus did. Case Study: Airbus Airbus is the market leader in aeronautics and aerospace products and services worldwide. The organization needed a user-centric digital transformation solution to optimize its data analytics, technology, and machine learning tools, but this proved difficult. Later, it embraced open-source technology and consolidated its 15 tools onto a user-friendly platform. In ten months, this helped produce 290,000 visits and 2,200,000 page views. Additionally, the company's service center is now managing 30% fewer incidents. 7. Adapt Company for a Change Digital transformation does not demand extensive technical expertise from management and employees; rather, it necessitates a shift in mindset. By embracing this new mindset and leveraging technology solutions to automate processes for both customers and employees, rapid growth can be achieved within the organization as well as in the external market. To facilitate this transformation, it is essential to identify areas that require change, enhance transparency, and foster a culture of collaboration within the organization. By taking these steps, an organization can effectively prepare for the changes brought about by digital transformation. Case Study: Honeywell The Fortune 100 manufacturer operates in industries such as aerospace and building technology. To improve product quality and make it easier to apply digital strategies, it cut its operations from eight markets to six. Early in its transformation journey, it established a digital transformation group in the company that led digital innovations like data-driven product offerings, IoT-connected devices, and advanced industrial process control. Honeywell Intelligent Wearables eliminated the need for expert site visits, empowered workers to continue learning, improved their performance, and effectively shared their knowledge with peers by connecting field workers with remote advice. In 2018, Honeywell's share price grew from $95 to $174, and revenue went from $40 billion to $43 billion. 8. 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Cummins now uses Microsoft 365 for information management and collaboration to create a new workplace culture. Cummins' 58000 employees work cross-functionally and globally to stay ahead. Cummins relies on Microsoft 365 for strict security, data management and delivery, and compliance. Final Thoughts Successful digital transformation in Industry 4.0 requires a strategic and holistic approach beyond technology adoption. It demands a cultural shift, stakeholder collaboration, and a clear vision of the desired outcomes. To achieve successful digital transformation in Industry 4.0, organizations must adopt best practices that encompass technological, cultural, and strategic dimensions. Data-driven decision-making, agility, continuous learning, and a customer-centric approach are key elements in this transformative journey. By prioritizing these practices, businesses can navigate the complexities of digital transformation, drive innovation, and stay competitive in the dynamic landscape of Industry 4.0.

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Best Practices for Successful Digital Transformation in Industry 4.0

Article | September 21, 2023

Navigating the path to success by unveiling the best practices for thriving in Industry 4.0 through successful digital transformation. Embrace the data-driven decision-making and customer-centricity. The pursuit of successful digital transformation has evolved from a business strategy to a business necessity. It is a vital imperative for organizations striving to survive and thrive in an ever-competitive market. Within this paradigm shift, a journey unfolds that transcends the commonplace and ventures into the realms of strategic innovation. This best practices article is not just a standard guide but a roadmap to excellence. Explore the best practices that propel businesses into the forefront of Industry 4.0. Beyond the surface of technology adoption lies a deeper narrative, one of cultural transformation, stakeholder collaboration, and visionary leadership. Delve into the intricacies of data-driven decision-making, the agility that fuels progress, the relentless pursuit of knowledge, and the unwavering commitment to the customer experience. Each of these elements forms a crucial thread in the tapestry of successful digital transformation. Through compelling case studies and real-world examples, draw inspiration from industry leaders who have not merely embraced change but have harnessed it to redefine their future. 1. Make confident decisions with Digital Twin Combining the physical and digital realms enables seamless integration of the entire value chain, from design to production, while optimizing with continuous data flow. A digital enterprise can harness the limitless power of data by obtaining valuable insights to make quick and confident decisions and to produce best-in-class products through efficient production. The Digital Twin approach integrates the entire product lifecycle with the factory and plant lifecycles and performance data. The end result is a continuous, open cycle of product and production optimization. The digital twin is a comprehensive digital representation of a product or process throughout its entire lifecycle. By creating a digital twin, companies can achieve significant value, such as faster time-to-market for new products, improved operational efficiency, reduced defects, and exploring new business models to drive revenue growth. With the digital twin, companies solve physical issues more efficiently by detecting them early on and accurately predicting outcomes. It empowers them to design and build superior products and ultimately enhance customer satisfaction by better serving their needs. By adopting smart architecture design, companies can continuously realize iterative value and benefits at an accelerated pace. Manufacturing, automotive, aviation, and other industries have adopted digital twins to boost productivity and efficiency. By 2025, the manufacturing industry is predicted to reach a market size worth over six billion U.S. dollars. 2. Vertically Network Various Units in Enterprise Vertical integration in a Digital Enterprise involves the convergence of IT and OT (Information Technology and Operational Technology) to enable seamless data flow from the shop floor to the top floor. The vast amount of data generated by field devices and control units on the shop floor is vital in the context of Industry 4.0, where intelligent data utilization and communication are paramount. Vertical integration generates a comprehensive solution by integrating IT systems at various hierarchical manufacturing and production levels. These hierarchical levels include the field level (interface with the production process via sensors), the control level (machine and system regulation), the production process level (to be monitored and controlled), the operations level (production planning and quality management), and the enterprise planning level. Vertical integration allows for improved communication and collaboration across different departments within the organization. This leads to better coordination, streamlined operations, and increased efficiency across the entire manufacturing ecosystem. A study by the Boston Consulting Group found that companies with a high level of vertical integration were 16% more productive than those with a low level of vertical integration. 3. Horizontally Integrate the Processes in Lifecycle The concept of horizontal integration in a Digital Enterprise ensures smooth data flow throughout the entire value chain. This integrated approach enables the digitalization of the complete value chain, spanning from design and production to service and recycling. By establishing seamless horizontal integration, it eliminates information silos and creates connections that encompass all aspects, from product innovation and manufacturing to product usage and beyond. Horizontally integrated companies focus on their core strengths and partner to support the value chain. Horizontal integration helps information flow between plant-level Manufacturing Execution Systems (MESs) when a company's manufacturing sites are spread out. This allows production sites to quickly share manufacturing data, such as unexpected delays, breakdowns, and inventory levels. Automated cooperation is crucial to supply chain integration in both the upstream (production processes and downstream (the process of bringing the finished products to market) supply and logistics chains. The integration lets a corporation automatically switch production duties between locations. A study byMcKinseyfound that companies that engaged in horizontal integration in the digital age saw their market share increase by an average of 10%. 4. Upgrade Digitalization using Automation Automation catalyzes growth by streamlining operations, breaking down silos, and promoting cross-functional collaboration. With reduced errors and increased efficiency, businesses can scale their operations with fewer resources, fostering a climate of innovation. This increased productivity allows employees to focus on more creative and challenging tasks, leading to higher motivation and engagement. Furthermore, automation provides a better customer experience, essential in today's digital-savvy market. By automating processes, businesses ensure quick access to customer information, leading to increased satisfaction. Lowering costs and expenditures is another significance enabling businesses to eliminate waste, save time, and conserve resources by automating data entry, approval workflows, and financial procedures. Additionally, automation enables efficient management of decentralized global teams from a central hub, further contributing to cost savings. Automation aids in enhancing security measures and simplifying compliance procedures. Businesses proactively identify vulnerabilities and ensure compliance with ever-changing regulations by automating data-intensive tasks. 97% of IT managers feel process automation is necessary for digital transformation. 5. Implement Additive Manufacturing The adoption of Additive Manufacturing (AM)technologies has prompted the evolution of innovative business models that emphasize environmental perspectives. AM has emerged as a transformative solution within the smart manufacturing industry, offering numerous advantages, such as improved labor, energy, and material optimization, enabling companies to respond to changing market demands effectively. AM is particularly time-saving and cost-effective for small-batch complex geometries products, allowing for non-traditional mass customization and shortening the product development cycle. It encourages changes in sustainable business models, including integrating recycled materials, increasing component attributes, and enhancing product lifecycle. AM’s sustainable benefits have garnered significant attention, focusing on reducing waste, optimizing material consumption, and shortening supply chains. Using layer-by-layer production, AM is considered less wasteful than traditional subtractive methods. It also facilitates the creation of products with extended lifecycles through repair, refurbishment, and remanufacturing, promoting sustainability and environmental responsibility. Study data estimates that the cost savings that can be achieved with Industry 4.0 transformations is 50%. 6. Choose the Appropriate Technology The success of digital transformation endeavors hinges on the careful selection of technologies to invest in. Avoid investing in the latest technology just for the sake of digitization, and refrain from rushing into numerous significant changes simultaneously, which may overwhelm employees. Instead, opt to gradually replace legacy systems and synchronize technology with business objectives through the implementation of new procedures. Here’s what Airbus did. Case Study: Airbus Airbus is the market leader in aeronautics and aerospace products and services worldwide. The organization needed a user-centric digital transformation solution to optimize its data analytics, technology, and machine learning tools, but this proved difficult. Later, it embraced open-source technology and consolidated its 15 tools onto a user-friendly platform. In ten months, this helped produce 290,000 visits and 2,200,000 page views. Additionally, the company's service center is now managing 30% fewer incidents. 7. Adapt Company for a Change Digital transformation does not demand extensive technical expertise from management and employees; rather, it necessitates a shift in mindset. By embracing this new mindset and leveraging technology solutions to automate processes for both customers and employees, rapid growth can be achieved within the organization as well as in the external market. To facilitate this transformation, it is essential to identify areas that require change, enhance transparency, and foster a culture of collaboration within the organization. By taking these steps, an organization can effectively prepare for the changes brought about by digital transformation. Case Study: Honeywell The Fortune 100 manufacturer operates in industries such as aerospace and building technology. To improve product quality and make it easier to apply digital strategies, it cut its operations from eight markets to six. Early in its transformation journey, it established a digital transformation group in the company that led digital innovations like data-driven product offerings, IoT-connected devices, and advanced industrial process control. Honeywell Intelligent Wearables eliminated the need for expert site visits, empowered workers to continue learning, improved their performance, and effectively shared their knowledge with peers by connecting field workers with remote advice. In 2018, Honeywell's share price grew from $95 to $174, and revenue went from $40 billion to $43 billion. 8. Integrate Digital Transformation into Business Goals Establish a strong connection between the digital transformation journey and the company's goals. Define the specific achievements to accomplish through digitization efforts. By aligning digital transformation initiatives with business objectives, a company can enhance its effectiveness in completing tasks, retaining existing employees, attracting new talent, and successfully overhauling company culture. Case Study: Cummins Cummins, a manufacturer of diesel and alternative fuel engines and generators is an example of a company that has capitalized on the increased demand for environmentally friendly products. Microsoft cloud compliance opportunities boost data security and IP protection. Microsoft has been one of the world's foremost technology companies for decades. Satya Nadella shifted the company's revenue model away from desktops and accelerated the transition to cloud computing. Cummins now uses Microsoft 365 for information management and collaboration to create a new workplace culture. Cummins' 58000 employees work cross-functionally and globally to stay ahead. Cummins relies on Microsoft 365 for strict security, data management and delivery, and compliance. Final Thoughts Successful digital transformation in Industry 4.0 requires a strategic and holistic approach beyond technology adoption. It demands a cultural shift, stakeholder collaboration, and a clear vision of the desired outcomes. To achieve successful digital transformation in Industry 4.0, organizations must adopt best practices that encompass technological, cultural, and strategic dimensions. Data-driven decision-making, agility, continuous learning, and a customer-centric approach are key elements in this transformative journey. By prioritizing these practices, businesses can navigate the complexities of digital transformation, drive innovation, and stay competitive in the dynamic landscape of Industry 4.0.

Read More

Achieving Interoperability in an Industry 4.0 Factory

Article | February 11, 2020

As a part of the Industry 4.0 movement, factory engineers are increasingly adopting some form of industrial Ethernet to interconnect the machines and other equipment implementing their production processes. Ethernet has been around in multiple forms for over 40 years. Most of it serves the IT community by interconnecting PCs and other equipment to a company LAN. Because of its flexibility, Ethernet has been adapted to many industrial uses.

Read More

The Impact of Coronavirus on Electronic Manufacturing

Article | February 11, 2020

Wuhan, the epicenter of the outbreak, is considered a crucial hub in the middle of China, a place of high importance for the production of automobiles, electronics, optics, and fiber optics. Wuhan and surrounding cities in the Hubei province are currently on a government-imposed quarantine at a scale the world has never seen before, some Chinese officials have referred to the situation as warlike.

Read More

Digitalizing Your Manufacturing Ecosystem

Article | February 10, 2020

Making digitalization work for you requires an understanding of your manufacturing ecosystem. Standards - such as ISA-95 - only guide you on a journey to more deeply comprehend the workings of your unique process for manufacturing your products. A batch manufacturing ecosystem often includes campaign management. Campaign management is not mentioned in ISA-95, which only speaks generally of order processing.

Read More
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Spotlight

3D Usher

3D Usher is an online network of low volume manufacturers, designers and post processing units that makes on-demand manufacturing accessible. The user can just go online, and submit a few responses to get their parts manufactured without having to own skills and infrastructure.

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Business Wire | October 06, 2023

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Rockwell Automation Signs Agreement to Acquire Verve Industrial Protection

Business Wire | October 30, 2023

Rockwell Automation, Inc. the world’s largest company dedicated to industrial automation and digital transformation, announced it has signed a definitive agreement to acquire Verve Industrial Protection, a cybersecurity software and services company that focuses specifically on industrial environments, expanding the offerings of Rockwell with an industry-leading asset inventory system and vulnerability management solution. A recent Rockwell Automation report found that operational technology (OT) and industrial control systems (ICS) attacks are on the rise, with 60% of the incidents studied resulting in operational disruption. As companies continually add hardware and software alongside legacy equipment in plants, many organizations struggle to manage and protect these assets across an expanded attack surface, increasing the potential for cyberattacks. Meanwhile, the industry is plagued with significant resource and talent shortages needed to implement and manage operational technology (OT) cybersecurity programs. The Verve Security Center platform enables real-time asset inventory, vulnerability management, and risk remediation that will strengthen Rockwell’s current offerings and address these issues. said Matt Fordenwalt, Rockwell’s senior vice president, Lifecycle Services. The foundation of OT cybersecurity starts with visibility into assets – you can’t protect what you don’t know you have. This continues to be a critical challenge for manufacturers. With the Verve acquisition, our customers can quickly assess their assets, prioritize risk, and apply countermeasures to mitigate vulnerabilities – all within a single platform. The addition of Verve to our suite of solutions allows customers to further build resiliency and continuously improve the security, safety, and availability of their operations. [Source:Business Wire] The Verve Security Center platform was built to provide IT-level security while addressing the unique challenges of the OT environment. At the center of the Verve platform is an asset inventory system that recognizes all industrial assets, regardless of manufacturer. Verve’s proprietary approach communicates directly with the assets, gathering critical information without impacting network performance and interrupting production. It then aggregates a wide range of data sources, including Rockwell’s partner technologies, into its platform as a “single pane of glass” that provides actionable insight for customers to quickly address their highest risk assets. Verve professional services also provide ongoing remediation, along with strategic roadmap and business case development, further deepening Rockwell’s cybersecurity consulting capabilities. Going forward, customers will benefit from comprehensive capabilities that span the entire attack continuum with the combined expertise of Verve, Rockwell, and Rockwell’s technology partnerships. “We are excited about the opportunity to join Rockwell, the leader in industrial automation and digital transformation, to further secure manufacturers’ assets around the world,” said John Livingston, CEO of Verve Industrial. “Our platform has helped clients mitigate thousands of vulnerabilities and is an important addition to Rockwell’s OT cybersecurity solutions, providing actionable intelligence to quickly mitigate cybersecurity risks, so that manufacturing facilities can stay up and running.” The acquisition is subject to customary approvals and is expected to close in the first quarter of Rockwell’s fiscal year 2024. At close, Verve will report into Rockwell’s Lifecycle Services operating segment.

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Digital Transformation

Kinaxis Drives Digital Transformation for Premium Automotive Brand

Business Wire | October 06, 2023

Kinaxis, the global leader in supply chain management, is bringing its patented technique of concurrency to Volvo Cars, leading the Swedish-manufacturer's supply chain operations into a new era of safety, innovation, and electrification. The Kinaxis RapidResponse® platform will empower Volvo Cars’ supply chain professionals to make faster and more accurate decisions – even as the automotive industry continues to face uncertainty. Kinaxis is trusted by top automotive brands and demonstrates a robust understanding of the unique pressures facing the industry through its solution offerings. The global shift to electric vehicles is a current industry focus, as companies need to balance the adoption of electric vehicles with regional sustainability policies. It is critical for automotive organizations to have end-to-end visibility to understand customer demand, maximize resource allocation, and minimize waste. “We take pride in working with industry leaders like Volvo Cars and playing a role in their commitment to creating safe, innovative vehicles that strive to do better for the planet,” said Claire Rychlewski, executive vice president of global field sales at Kinaxis. “We’re excited to work together in helping them continue to deliver their premium customer experience.” About Kinaxis Kinaxis is the global leader in modern supply chain management. We serve supply chains and the people who manage them in service of humanity. Our software is trusted by renowned global brands to provide the agility and predictability needed to navigate today’s volatility and disruption. We combine our patented concurrency technique with a human-centered approach to AI to empower businesses of all sizes to orchestrate their end-to-end supply chain network, from multi-year strategic planning through down-to-the-second execution and last-mile delivery.

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Additive Manufacturing

Nexa3D Plans to Acquire Essentium for Broadened Capabilities

Nexa3D | November 07, 2023

Nexa3D, an ultrafast 3D printing leader, has taken a substantial step in staking its leader position in the industrial additive manufacturing space by signing a LOI to acquire Essentium, a manufacturer of HSE 3D printers and materials, adopted for high requirement, precision applications in aerospace, defense, and military. With this acquisition, Nexa3D will add high-speed extrusion (HSE) to its current product portfolio. The acquisition would broaden capabilities, diversify revenues, and expand addressable markets for the fast-growing 3D printing company. Avi Reichental, Co-founder, Chairman, and CEO of Nexa3D, stated that they are looking forward to welcoming the Essentium team to Nexa3D’s family. The acquisition will be a testament to their unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of 3D printing technology. He continued that by joining forces with Essentium, they aim to create synergies to deliver unmatched value to their customers. Together, they will drive ultrafast additive manufacturing innovation and provide even more powerful solutions for manufacturers seeking to achieve their production goals. Essentium, known for its variety of materials portfolio, true independent dual extruders (IDEX) and award-winning high-speed extrusion 3D printers, has provided solutions for complex polymer production applications 5 to 15 times quicker than other competing extrusion technologies. Essentium’s commitment to reliability and innovation has made it a go-to choice for manufacturers worldwide. Nexa3D has rapidly emerged as a leader in the 3D printing space, delivering excellent production solutions for businesses across various sectors. Best known for its ultrafast 3D printers, from desktops to the factory floor, its technology has redefined the possibilities of 3D printing production, enabling unparalleled productivity, material flexibility, and accuracy. Adopted by around 1200 customers all over the world, its printers have become the go-to solution for high-throughput production applications. This acquisition is expected to close by the end of this year or as soon as practicable afterward. Both Essentium and Nexa3D are committed to ensure a smooth transition and for maintaining uninterrupted services to existing and prospective customers. About Nexa3D Nexa3D is committed to the sustainable digitization of supply chains, driven by its relentless pursuit of advancing additive manufacturing. The company engineers ultrafast polymer 3D printers, capable of delivering remarkable productivity gains, up to 20 times greater, to professionals and businesses of varying sizes. Innovative partnerships with renowned material suppliers, combined with an open materials platform, serve as the catalyst for unlocking the full potential of additively manufactured polymers, particularly in volume production. Nexa3D leverages automated software tools, employing process interplay algorithms that optimize the production cycle.

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