In a recent groundbreaking collaboration, NTT DATA and Schneider Electric have come together to create a cutting-edge edge-to-cloud environment for Schneider’s Lexington Smart Factory. This facility, a proud recipient of accolades from the World Economic Forum for its sustainability initiatives, is now at the forefront of utilizing IoT connectivity and predictive analytics to enhance energy efficiency.
As a renowned figure in the digital revolution of energy management, Schneider Electric enlisted the expertise of NTT DATA to forge a comprehensive digital platform. This platform was designed to accelerate the adoption of novel technologies within the factory, which is tasked with manufacturing and assembling components for industrial electrical systems such as load centres and safety switches.
Smart factory use cases in action at Schneider Electric
The partnership aimed to facilitate various use cases that would support equipment availability, ameliorate machine performance, and elevate product quality. An initial implementation saw the integration of industrial cameras equipped with advanced optics into the factory’s automation systems. By introducing machine vision, Schneider aspired to swiftly pinpoint defects and ascertain their root causes to increase operational stability and minimize equipment degradation.
Another application focused on enhancing the employee experience. Augmented reality solutions were deployed to provide remote workers, who perform maintenance on physical equipment, with superior support during field operations.
Unbroken connectivity for uninterrupted data flow
A pivotal component that contributed to the project’s triumph was the establishment of a swift and seamless data transfer from edge devices to cloud-based applications and analytics. Addressing the complexities of modern multi-cloud enterprise environments, NTT DATA set up a private 5G network within the factory to ensure continuous connectivity. Additionally, the management of devices across the factory’s landscape was refined.
The outcomes of this project serve as a benchmark in managing operational integrity within various smart factory settings. With NTT DATA’s support, Schneider has successfully:
- Utilized IoT connectivity, edge, and predictive analytics
- Boosted energy efficiency and sustainability
- Resolved equipment performance challenges
- Improved overall product quality
- Incorporated machine-vision into automation systems
- Detected maintenance requirements almost instantaneously
- Significantly fast-tracked the digitization of smart factory operations
Powering manufacturing’s industrial-to-digital transformation with Dell
NTT DATA has joined forces with Dell Technologies to assist manufacturers in the evolution of their data centers towards a managed or as-a-service edge-to-cloud environment. The synergy aims to modernize cloud infrastructures and refine the speed, quality, and security of applications using cloud-native microservices and migration strategies.
Dell, a significant player in IT manufacturing, contributes its in-depth knowledge of manufacturing processes and smart factory advancements. Moreover, Dell collaborates with entities like SAP and Siemens to cater to the industry-specific demands.
From cloud advisory to modernised cloud architecture
The combined offerings of NTT DATA and Dell include consultancy, modernization, and management services. Beginning with sophisticated cloud-transformation advisory services, they guide manufacturers towards optimized operations with industry-standard blueprints and best practices.
The subsequent modernized cloud architecture helps manufacturers identify cost savings from operational expenses and inefficient resource utilization, releasing funds for further innovation. With autonomous edge devices and AI-driven analytics, potential machinery failures can be anticipated and addressed preemptively. This approach also aids in mitigating risks and penalties through enhanced data compliance, security, and governance measures.
The Managed Private Cloud solution offered by the partnership ensures uniform management across various clouds, delivering higher performance and reduced latency for demanding applications, better data mobility between public and private clouds, and robust security and compliance.
As the manufacturing sector continues to evolve, embracing new technologies becomes essential for innovation, sustainability, and competitive edge. NTT DATA and Dell are dedicated to aiding manufacturers in redefining the possibilities within the factory environment.
