AI-based software solution improves Enercon's cutting and kitting operations

Wind turbine manufacturer Enercon (Aurich, Germany) reported on Sept. 30 that it has deployed Plataine’s (Waltham, Mass., U.S.) AI-based optimization solution to automate and simplify cutting and kitting operations, and increase material yield while maintaining product quality in its rotor blade manufacturing facility in Viana do Castello, Portugal. Plataine was selected, Enercon says, due to its expertise and proven track record in rotor blade manufacturing processes, as well as its global recognition as a leading provider of Industrial IoT and AI-based solutions for smart factories.

According to Enercon, Plataine’s solution delivers a range of benefits including seamless and easy integrating with Enercon’s existing IT systems, and enabling the company to automatically gather all required information from systems and operators, bringing engineering files and work orders onto one single platform. In turn, Enercon says, this allows automatic generation of optimal cutting plans, and advanced cutting and kitting methods and efficiencies, enabling a balance between material utilization and the complexity of kitting operations, while considering other manufacturing constraints. The result is said to significantly increase in material use, maximize production efficiencies and eliminate quality defects affecting time-to-market, rework and scrap.

Plataine’s software is also said to analyze pending work orders, on-hand inventory, the latest design files and operational constraints to create optimized cut plans. Automated record keeping and reporting eliminates manual paperwork, allowing complete traceability of the digital thread from raw material to end-product and reduced risk of human error. Overall, Enercon says Plataine’s solutions are designed for quick and simple deployment.

“There is a rising demand for renewable energy, and as rotor blade manufacturing involves complex kitting and packaging processes, significant opportunities for further optimization and material savings are created. We are excited to work with Enercon and partner with them to push the productivity envelope while maximizing production efficiency,” says Avner Ben-Bassat, president and CEO of Plataine.