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The adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies in manufacturing companies is challenging, particularly for SMEs that lack the necessary skills to develop and integrate AI-based applications (AI applications) into their existing IT system landscape. To address this challenge, the research project VoBAKI (IGF-Project No.: 22009 N) aims to enable SMEs to identify and close skill gaps related to AI application development and implementation using proper sourcing strategies. This paper presents the interim results from the second phase of the project, which involves identifying the tasks in the lifecycle of AI applications and determining the specific skills required for executing these tasks. The presented results provide a detailed lifecycle including the phases for the development and usage of AI applications, as well as the specific tasks that SMEs must consider when implementing an AI application. These results serve as the foundation for future research regarding the required skills to execute the presented tasks and provide a roadmap for SMEs to close skill gaps and successfully implement AI applications.
Today’s manufacturers are facing numerous challenges such as highly entangled and interconnected supply chains, shortening product lifecycles and growing product complexity. They thus feel the need to adjust and adapt faster on all levels of value creation. Self-optimization as a basic principle appears a promising approach to handle complexity and unforeseen disturbances within supply chains, machines and processes. Therefore it will improve the resilience and competitiveness of manufacturing companies.
This paper gives an introduction to the concept of self-optimizing production systems. After a short historical review, the different levels of value creation from supply chain design and management to manufacturing and assembly are analyzed considering their specific demands and needs for self-optimization. Examples from each of these levels are used to illustrate the concept of self-optimization as well as to outline its potential for flexibility and productivity. This paper closes with an outlook on the current scientific work and promising new fields of action.