At the recent Hannover Messe show, motion technology leader Schaeffler and technology giant Siemens signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU), solidifying their commitment to advancing artificial intelligence (AI) applications in the industrial sector. This strategic partnership aims to revolutionize digital production processes, empowering employees and enhancing operational efficiency through innovative AI-driven solutions.
Schaeffler has integrated Siemens’ AI-based assistant, the ‘Siemens Industrial Copilot,’ into its production machines to automate the generation of programmable logic controller (PLC) codes. This integration streamlines complex automation processes, enabling employees to generate machine codes efficiently using natural spoken language.
Klaus Rosenfeld, CEO of Schaeffler AG, emphasized the significance of digitalization in enhancing production processes, stating, “Digitalization is one of Schaeffler’s key topics. The use of AI-based solutions is crucial for driving innovation, agility, and efficiency in production.” The collaboration with Siemens underscores Schaeffler’s commitment to leveraging generative AI solutions to deliver added value to customers.
Cedrik Neike, Member of the Managing Board of Siemens AG and CEO Digital Industries, highlighted the transformative impact of AI in manufacturing, stating, “Siemens and Schaeffler are pioneers on the path to highly-automated and digital factories.” Neike emphasized the role of the ‘Siemens Industrial Copilot’ in revolutionizing production processes, from AI-generated machine code to AI-based maintenance.
Schaeffler’s adoption of AI extends beyond the ‘Siemens Industrial Copilot,’ with the company implementing various AI solutions across its operations. The pilot deployment of the ‘Siemens Industrial Copilot’ on a robot cell from Schaeffler Special Machinery exemplifies this commitment. This joint project between Schaeffler and Siemens reduces the operational burden on machine operators by automating complex programming tasks.
Andreas Schick, Chief Operating Officer of Schaeffler AG, highlighted the transformative potential of AI in manufacturing, stating, “We are now at the start of a decade of efficiency at Schaeffler.” Schick emphasized how the ‘Siemens Industrial Copilot’ empowers shop-floor experts with a digital tool that simplifies work processes and significantly enhances efficiency, propelling production into a new era of digitalization.
The collaboration between Schaeffler and Siemens underscores a shared vision of leveraging AI to drive operational excellence, enhance productivity, and deliver innovative solutions that shape the future of industrial manufacturing. By harnessing the power of AI, both companies are paving the way for a new era of digital transformation in manufacturing.