Approach for the implementation of resource analysis methods in learning factories

Abstract

Several analysis methods exist to identify hotspots regarding resource efficiency in industry and consecutively find measures to reduce environmental impact. Still, many companies do not use systematic methods to analyse and improve their resource efficiency, partly because they do not have the competencies to apply them. In this context, learning factories support by providing a realistic environment to teach methodological competencies. This paper systematically derives criteria and compares hotspot analysis methods for the identification of resource efficiency hotspots. Based on these results, an approach is developed to derive needed competencies and a list of required technical infrastructure for learning factories. The developed tool includes the general ratings of the methods depending on prerequisites as well as the possibility to weight the criteria. Learning factory operators and trainers can use this tool to identify suitable hotspot analysis methods and get guidance on how to implement the methods in their learning environment.