IIoT

Fiber-reinforced polymer composites (FRP) offer significant lightweight potential due to their high specific strength and stiffness; however, their global warming potential (GWP) during production is significantly higher than that of lightweight metals. This project investigates how digital methods can help reduce production waste, rework, and rejects. The approach includes continuous life cycle assessment, simulation-based property prediction, and data-driven, AI-supported quality control for components in production. The necessary process data is provided by an Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) system developed in the project’s first phase. On the field level, laboratory facilities for winding, tape laying, thermoforming, and sheet molding compound production have been modernized and connected to the IIoT. To make the overall system along the FKV value chain Industry 4.0-compatible, even beyond the stages preceding and following IVW, an information system for digital twins based on administration shells was implemented.

By employing digital methods such as automated life cycle assessment and simulation-based property prediction, the project aims to reduce the production-related global warming potential of FRP.