IDF – Institute for Data-optimised Manufacturing

Our mission: Operational business intelligence in the field of smart factories

The IDF – Institute for Data-optimised Manufacturing (originally founded as the Technology Transfer Centre (TTC) for Process Data-optimised Manufacturing – Kaufbeuren) investigates research and development issues in the field of machining.

We consider the entire value creation process using machining tools – from the manufacture of the machines themselves through to the moment when production takes place on them. We work together with partners in industry on devising practical solutions to problems and on creating innovations.

The IDF is spearheaded by professors in the Faculties of Computer Science and Mechanical Engineering and employs research assistants with degrees in the relevant disciplines, supported by students working on projects and degree dissertations.

Objectives and research areas

At the IDF – Institute for Data-Optimised Manufacturing, we are constructing an applications centre with a real-life “glass series production plant” for machining. Our work focuses on the topics of process data-optimised manufacturing and Industry 4.0 – i.e. the digitalisation of industrial production. Our industrial partners at various points along the value chain can further develop and network their solutions in joint projects with the IDF.

We work on designing and implementing prototypes for an end-to-end operational business intelligence solution for the machining industry, i.e. “smart factory”. A selection of pilot projects in the field of machining technology provide ideas and serve as a practical testing ground.

In order to achieve process data-optimised machining production across the entire breadth of this field, we are pursuing many sub-projects within the four inter-related fields of activity.

The main pillars of the Institute for Data-optimised Manufacturing are:

• Developing machine-oriented sensor technology for capturing process-specific parameters and real-time data;
• Developing an infrastructure to transfer and store data in suitable database structures with scalable cloud solutions;
• Tool tracking to record machining processes and the specific tools involved – enabling precise predictions of tool life and optimising resource efficiency in production;
• Addressing the hitherto neglected issue of the optimal use of cooling lubricants;
• Developing suitable business models to convert optimised manufacturing processes into tangible customer benefits.