The automotive and industrial giant selected IBM to act as the technology provider, consultant and development partner. The two companies will look to integrate Schaeffler’s mechatronics components, systems and machines into the Internet of Things (IoT). A digital platform for all of Schaeffler’s added-value digital services has already been built, and was unveiled in October this year.
Schaeffler have invested heavily into IoT-ready components, such as bearings or clutch release systems, in recent years. It is now possible for these parts to collect and process valuable data on the condition of a machine and convert it into added-value services.
“We are concentrating on expanding the integration of sensors into our existing products, as well as developing new products with integrated cognitive software,” said Gerhard Baum, chief digital officer at Schaeffler. “Not only will the machines and transport infrastructure within the production environment at Schaeffler be connected, but individual plants will also be digitally linked to the whole supply chain.”
The two companies will collaborate on a number of areas, including maintenance in the wind energy sector, connected vehicles and Industry 4.0 for machine tools.
“The joint implementation of Schaeffler’s digital agenda is the perfect fit to leverage and promote our new cognitive IoT capabilities for the manufacturing sector,” said Ivo Koerner, sales board member at IBM Germany.
