Conceptual Framework of a Digital Twin Fostering Sustainable Manufacturing in a Brownfield Approach of Small Volume Production for SMEs

Abstract

SMEs are increasingly forced to shift to more sustainable manufacturing. Industry 4.0 can support the transformation and foster innovation. But, SMEs need solutions with a low barrier to entry in terms of investment, IT knowledge and capacities. A framework based on value and material flow analysis, low investments and user-oriented IT skills is proposed. As an example, it is implemented in the furniture industry and shows a digital twin in terms of monitoring the energy and material flows. In addition, a product-specific allocation of energy consumption, energy peak shaving and other applications are possible.