AIDIP

About the project

Traditional activity planning in manufacturing is based on orders and their expected lead time. The objective of the AIDIP project is to create a planning system that also takes into account the supply chain status and the sustainability impact of the logistics. The core of the solution is a dynamic scheduler that considers supply chain availability, through the logistic Data Space and the environmental impact of the expeditions in its algorithms. 

The solution is dedicated mainly to companies with high-mix-low-volume productions. Within the project, the AIDIP solution will be tested on two different industrial use cases that will facilitate the collection of requirements and the validation of the solution. 

Challenges

The main challenge of this project is to involve the supply chain in the process of planning the production tasks. Proper scheduling of production and material orders can guarantee more efficient production with lower costs and environmental impact. 

Solutions

The idea for the AIDIP solution is to integrate the Lexatexer scheduling algorithm with a Data Space for collecting supply chain availability information. In addition, a Sustainability Management component is dedicated to calculating the sustainability impact of the expedition.  

While the scheduling algorithm is optimised for task scheduling, the algorithm is modified to include the availability of material and the lead time from the suppliers. Data Spaces are used to more easily collect data from different providers. The data exchange is protected by defined data governance procedures focused on safety and security. 

The AIDIP solution has been tested and validated in two industrial use cases, Beko Europe and Solenis. 

Expected results

The AIDIP solution is expected to improve production efficiency by reducing the inefficiencies related to missing input material and to the resulting stopping and restarting of machines.  

At the same time, it aims to reduce the amount of CO2 emissions related to the supply chain by reducing the number of shipments and increment orders from closer producers. This aspect should also valorise local and small producers. 

Improved management of orders has the potential to also increase stocks efficiency, with a reduction in the costs related to warehouse management and land usage.