EqualityAMPlan
Learning factory-based training to teach skills for agile assembly(-scheduling) with the support of digital technologies to increase equality and professional integration in SMEs.
Initial Situation
Volatility and uncertainty in the business environment are driving companies more and more towards agility. In the area of manual assembly, many measures can be taken to become even more flexible. In the era of Industry 4.0, digitization is more important than before. The upcoming generational change poses additional risks, especially for SMEs. Digital assistance systems and training can help to cope with this change. Furthermore, flexibilizing personnel planning tools can be used to be even more agile to uncertainties. It is precisely these approaches that can help to promote equality and the professional integration of part-time workers, hence mothers, fathers and older employees.
Goal
The aim of the project is (1) to find out which digitization tools are most relevant, especially for SMEs. (2) How working time models in combination with digitization can cushion the shortage of skilled workers. In particular, to mothers and fathers of small children as well as to older workers with reduced working hours. (3) As a summary and concluding part, it will be examined how necessary competencies can best be imparted via training. For this purpose, a learning factory-based training with the support of digital technologies is being developed.
Procedure
In the first step of the research project, a broad research about digital assistance systems in the assembly department is carried out in previous projects. In the scope of these results, it will be investigated how assistance systems in combination with working time models can increase the flexibility of an assembly line. To get an overview of the current state of digitalization, interviews with supporting and selected companies will be conducted. An analysis of these interviews will provide information about the necessary competencies for employees in assembly. In order to convey these competencies, a training for companies will be created. The aim is to show how well new employees are integrated into the assembly process with the help of assistance systems. All AK companies can take advantage of this training at the Institute for Industrial Management and Innovation in the Learning Factory. This is intended to make it easier for parents of small children in particular, as well as older or impaired persons, to get started with technology. SMEs get the advantage that the selection of employees is increased and thus the shortage of skilled workers can be compensated more easily.
