Univ.-Prof. Dr.-Ing. Detlef Gerhard - Ruhr-Universität Bochum

Projects

VR-PLC: Train-the-Trainer

In 2022, the EITM funded VR-PLC activity created introductory courses on PLCs and PLC programming. Instructions and exercises on PLC programming were conducted in an interactive, virtual learning environment in which learners can manipulate the virtual environment and observe the effect of their program. Through the virtual environments, the needs for real PLC hardware are reduced, making it easier, more flexible and more affordable for participants to strengthen their skills. In 2023, the consortium plans to build upon these results by expanding the programming exercises to intermediate and advanced levels, expand on topics like Industry 4.0 and the Internet of Things, preparing professionals and their companies for the digital transformation. To increase the impact in 2023, the project will focus on the train-the-trainer approach. Instead of approaching individuals, the project focuses on VET trainers and professionals who are then skilled to continue with the education of others.

Skill development in AI driven Generative Engineering and Design Automation

Product innovation remains essential for companies to ensure prosperity in Europe. The application of artificial intelligence (AI) in design software tools (e.g. CAD) for Generative Design / Generative Engineering, Design Automation and Design Optimisation opens up completely new possibilities for the development of innovative products and systems and fundamentally changes the design process. As this technology is brand new in CAD tools, engineering professionals need to be educated to take advantage of the potential impact on future product development and innovation activities in companies.

Accelerating Industrial IoT integration through Asset Administration Shell template implementation

In practice, the integration of heterogeneous IoT components is often a complex and confusing process. The different ways of representing information about individual assets create the desire for a standardized representation. The asset administration shell creates a digital exchange format for this purpose with the potential to significantly increase the degree of automation in the integration of IoT components.

The digital twin for efficient and precise production of concrete modules

Im Rahmen des DFG Schwerpunktprogramms "Adaptive Modulbauweisen mit Fließfertigungsmethoden" bearbeitet der LDE das Teilprojekt "Der digitale Zwilling für die schnelle und präzise Fertigung von Betonmodulen".