SMARTPM participates as a partner in the PILGRIM project led by IBARMIA which focuses on solving the challenges associated with internal logistics by creating a highly flexible and hardware-independent manufacturing orchestrator.
Sponsored under the Hazitek program, the research project aims to develop a "System for Intelligent and Interconnected Physical Loading and Industrial Resource Management Processes".
The PILGRIM project, which will run until the end of 2025, involves the joint participation of IBARMIA and SMARTPM and includes the key collaboration of TECNALIA. This collaboration seeks to optimize production planning and execution, reduce the need for human intervention, minimize downtime and maximize the utilization of industrial resources.
Transformation of machining lines
The manufacturing sector has undergone significant transformations in recent decades thanks to the implementation of advanced technologies such as CNC, robotics, and IoT. These innovations have increased the capacity of machining lines to manufacture complex parts with exceptional levels of precision and efficiency. The integration of digital systems has also enabled real-time data analysis and predictive maintenance.
However, there is still significant dependence on human intervention to ensure process continuity and accuracy, which can lead to interruptions and increase the risk of errors. Unattended manufacturing emerges as the solution to overcome these limitations, promoting systems capable of operating autonomously, with minimal downtime and more efficient resource management.
The challenge of internal logistics
To achieve this level of autonomy, the PILGRIM project focuses on developing an orchestrator software that integrates the overall management of internal logistics. This system will act as the central brain of the machining process, globally coordinating activities such as material supply, tool loading and machine adjustment.
On the one hand, the project will enable significant progress towards uninterrupted operations through advanced systems for the autonomous management of tangible assets. These systems will provide materials and settings to machines efficiently, automatically adjusting to production requirements and optimizing available resources.
On the other hand, automation of tools and tooling is essential to minimize process interruptions. The use of robotic magazines and automatic tool change systems will ensure continuous operations, reducing the risk of errors and improving production accuracy. In addition, wear detection technologies will ensure timely tool replacement, avoiding defects and costs associated with unplanned downtime.
In short, this system ensures the availability of the right resources at all times, ensuring smooth transitions between jobs, reducing human errors and enhancing the scalability of processes for future needs.
Unattended manufacturing and strengthening of human-machine interaction.
The main objective of the PILGRIM project is to design a manufacturing orchestrator to move towards unattended manufacturing by developing intelligent, hardware-agnostic modules. These modules will allow the autonomous management of tangible assets such as tools, tooling and raw materials, optimizing their loading and use in machining processes. The integration of a digital twin will be a key component, as it will allow the simulation and visualization of production processes, improving understanding and facilitating human-machine collaboration in operational management.
A central aspect of this collaboration is the strengthening of human-machine interaction. The development of intuitive interfaces and advanced visualization systems will provide operators with constant and clear feedback, improving decision making and facilitating the transition to a more autonomous manufacturing environment.
New MIC platform features and solutions
SMARTPM will integrate the results of the project into its MIC automation platform, enhancing the flexibility and autonomy of its solutions. This will enable it to offer new functions and digital solutions based on artificial intelligence for efficient and flexible manufacturing.
In addition, specific developments will be incorporated into IBARMIA's equipment, creating joint solutions that integrate hardware and software to provide flexibility and added value to customers.
The PILGRIM project marks a milestone in the evolution towards unattended manufacturing, consolidating SMARTPM as a key player in the development of technological solutions for the industry of the future.
Project co-financed by the Basque Government and the European Union.
The PILGRIM project is co-financed by the Basque Government through the Hazitek program and the European Union through the European Regional Development Fund 2021-2027 (ERDF).
