Plooto-Project

D&C for EU Funded Projects: Towards an Integrated Omnichannel Dissemination and Communication Framework

user — Tue, 30 Jan 2024 12:50:20 +0000

Effectively disseminating and communicating the results of an EU funded project is of high interest to the European Union. This research proposed a new approach by introducing an Integrated Omnichannel Dissemination and Communication (IODC) Framework.

Abstract: In an ever-changing environment, technological progress is at the frontline. Through European-funded projects, research is conducted in various fields, aiming to tackle Europe’s biggest challenges in various sectors. In the course of materializing these new advancements, exploitable outcomes are designed and developed that, in turn, need to be optimally introduced to the market. In order for that to happen, the first thing needed is to make the developments widely known so that they start the journey of diffusion toward adoption, for which Dissemination and Communication is key. However, Dissemination and Communication actions are quite often underperforming. This research proposes a new approach to Dissemination and Communication actions by introducing an Integrated Omnichannel Dissemination and Communication (IODC) Framework relying upon Integrated Communications, capitalizing on and Omnichannel approach to optimally address all potentially interested stakeholders (through the Quintuple helix) that can help European Funded projects’ partners effectively structure their Dissemination and Communication strategy and actions.

Citation: Koukopoulos Anastasios, Lounis Stavros, Farmakis Timoleon, Vrechopoulos Adam, Doukidis Georgios, D&C for EU Funded Projects: Towards an Integrated Omnichannel Dissemination and Communication Framework, ELTRUN – The E-Business Research Center Athens University of Economics and Business, School of Business, Department of Management Science and Technology, 76, Patission Str., 104 34, Athens, Greece

Link: https://eltrun.org/wpcontent/uploads/2023/12/ICCMI_2023.pdf

A Rula-based Assessment Framework based on Machine Vision and Zero-Defect Manufacturing 4.0 Initiative

user — Tue, 30 Jan 2024 12:38:31 +0000

Another paper for the Zero-Defect Manufacturing (ZDM) paradigm! In this paper, a Rula-based Machine Vision Framework is proposed.

Abstract: The Zero-Defect Manufacturing (ZDM) paradigm will drastically change the manufacturing system and its socio-technological interactions. Following the idea that ‘quality is free’, this is, the cost of appraisals is lower compared to defects, bigger effort will be placed in detect, predict, prevent, and repair. Such activities would require an adequate level of automation. Human operators are the ultimate flexible resource in the manufacturing system, thus should be appreciated and protected. Human Factors and Ergonomics (HF/E) have been studies for decades but not been part of Industry 4.0. To secure a true sustainable growth towards ZDM and Industry 5.0, humans should be the centre of such socio-technological revolution. Utilising state-of-the-art technologies, such as Machine Vision and Artificial Intelligence, and knowledge gained from the ergonomic science field, human-centred ZDM can be secured. In this paper, a RULA-based Machine Vision framework is proposed for the real-time assessment of human ergonomics in shop floor.

Citation: Psarommatis, Foivos & Azamfirei, Victor & Konstantinidis, Fotios. (2023). A Rula-based Assessment Framework based on Machine Vision and Zero-Defect Manufacturing 4.0 Initiative. 22-24

Link: https://sensorsportal.com/ARCI/ARCI_2023_Proceedings.pdf

Envisioning maintenance 5.0: Insights from a systematic literature review of Industry 4.0 and a proposed framework

user — Tue, 30 Jan 2024 12:27:18 +0000

Linking traditional and advanced maintenance policies for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to facilitate the adoption of Industry 4.0 technologies in the maintenance field via a novel framework! This paper envisions the concept of Maintenance 5.0 in the context of Zero-Defect Manufacturing (ZDM) systems.

Abstract: To provide direction and advice for future research on Industry 4.0 maintenance, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of 344 eligible journal papers published between 2013 and 2022. Our systematic literature review identifies key trends in advanced maintenance techniques and the consolidation of traditional maintenance concepts, which are driven by the increasing adoption of Industry 4.0 technologies and the need to optimize manufacturing systems’ performance and reliability. In light of our findings, we highlight the importance of addressing sustainability factors, human aspects, and the implementation of environmental KPIs in future research. Building upon these insights, we introduce the Maintenance 5.0 framework, which emphasizes the integration of human-centered and AI-driven strategies for achieving efficient and sustainable maintenance in Zero-Defect Manufacturing (ZDM) systems. We propose a novel framework that links traditional and advanced maintenance policies for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to facilitate the adoption of Industry 4.0 technologies in the maintenance field. This work underscores the need for future research to bridge the gap between these policies, enabling a seamless transition for SMEs towards Industry 4.0 maintenance practices, while fostering sustainable and socially responsible operations.

Citation: Foivos Psarommatis, Gökan May, Victor Azamfirei,Envisioning maintenance 5.0: Insights from a systematic literature review of Industry 4.0 and a proposed framework,Journal of Manufacturing Systems,Volume 68,2023,Pages 376-399,ISSN 0278-6125

Link: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jmsy.2023.04.009

Human Factors in the Design of Advanced Quality Inspection Systems in the Era of Zero-Defect Manufacturing

user — Tue, 30 Jan 2024 12:19:24 +0000

Commitment and collaboration of everyone, from the top management to operators, is crucial in designing effective quality inspection systems in the manufacturing industry. Read more in this paper, titled: “Human Factors in the Design of Advanced Quality Inspection Systems in the Era of Zero-Defect Manufacturing”

Abstract: Manufacturing companies around the world are under constant pressure to perform effectively and sustainably. Incidental processes, such as Quality Inspection (QI), are needed to achieve Zero-Defects Manufacturing (ZDM). This study aimed to identify the Human Factors and Ergonomics (HF&E) in the design of advanced automation, QI systems, and ZDM through selected papers and empirical observations. Our presented model is built around the six main dimensions, i.e., top management, manager (project owner), designers, engineers (internal and suppliers), and operators. The commitment of top management, the openness of the manager, the design-friendly nature of the technological system, and the constant updating of knowledge by engineers are important for the success of ZDM. Researchers need to be familiar with cognitive and organisational human factors to align theory with specific cases. Operators face physical and cognitive challenges, and their environment and health must be considered for their successful contribution to the design of advanced QI systems.

Citation: Azamfirei, V., Psarommatis, F., Lagrosen, Y. (2024). Human Factors in the Design of Advanced Quality Inspection Systems in the Era of Zero-Defect Manufacturing. In: Silva, F.J.G., Ferreira, L.P., Sá, J.C., Pereira, M.T., Pinto, C.M.A. (eds) Flexible Automation and Intelligent Manufacturing: Establishing Bridges for More Sustainable Manufacturing Systems. FAIM 2023. Lecture Notes in Mechanical Engineering. Springer, Cham

Link: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-38165-2_92

A Readiness Level Assessment Framework for Zero Defect Manufacturing (ZDM)

user — Tue, 30 Jan 2024 12:09:47 +0000

Do you want to learn more about Zero-Defect Manufacturing (ZDM)? This paper present a framework that includes four pillars for ZDM readiness.

Abstract: In this study, a comprehensive framework for assessing the readiness of production systems for Zero Defect Manufacturing (ZDM) has been developed and presented. The framework includes four pillars of ZDM readiness, namely Personnel, Procedures, Infrastructure, and Company Culture, to help companies understand their level of readiness and plan for successful implementation of ZDM. We argue that a manufacturing company will be better equipped to embrace ZDM if it performs well in these four areas. We propose a tool that uses yes/no questionnaires to assess a manufacturing system’s readiness for ZDM. The results of the questionnaire will objectively show the true level of cultural readiness for ZDM adoption, and the level of investment required for implementation will depend on the level of readiness. This tool can help companies gain a clear understanding of their readiness and create a plan for implementing ZDM. Overall, our framework and tool can help manufacturers improve the quality of their products and be ready for ZDM adoption.

Citation: Psarommatis, F., May, G., Azamfirei, V., Magnanini, M.C., Powell, D. (2024). A Readiness Level Assessment Framework for Zero Defect Manufacturing (ZDM). In: Silva, F.J.G., Ferreira, L.P., Sá, J.C., Pereira, M.T., Pinto, C.M.A. (eds) Flexible Automation and Intelligent Manufacturing: Establishing Bridges for More Sustainable Manufacturing Systems. FAIM 2023. Lecture Notes in Mechanical Engineering. Springer, Cham

Link: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-38165-2_53

A Systematic Analysis for Mapping Product-Oriented and Process-Oriented Zero-Defect Manufacturing (ZDM) in the Industry 4.0 Era

user — Tue, 30 Jan 2024 12:04:05 +0000

Systematic literature reviews advance the knowledge in the filed. Learn more for Zero-Defect Manufacturing (ZDM) in this paper, titled “A Systematic Analysis for Mapping Product-Oriented and Process-Oriented Zero-Defect Manufacturing (ZDM) in the Industry 4.0 Era”

Abstract: Quality is a key aspect in the era of Industry 4.0. Zero-defect manufacturing (ZDM) as the latest quality assurance approach. It can be implemented in two different approaches: the product-oriented and the process-oriented ZDM. It is important to know how and when to consider adopting one approach over the other. To achieve that there is the need for analyzing the differences of the two ZDM approaches. However, the current literature lacks a detailed analysis and comparison of these two approaches to ZDM implementation. Earlier studies on the topic have adopted one of these approaches over the other without evaluating how it fits with specific cases. The literature of the last decade indicates a movement towards product-oriented approaches, but it has not shown proof why product oriented was used over process oriented. Guided by these gaps, this research work creates a model for quantifying the effects of the implementation of both the product-oriented and process-oriented ZDM approaches. The proposed model considers all the critical parameters that affect the problem and serves as an assisting tool to engineers during the design or re-configure manufacturing systems, for choosing the most efficient ZDM approach for their specific cases. The robustness of the model was analyzed using the design of experiments method. The results from both the designed experiments and an industrial use case illustrate that in most cases, product-oriented ZDM performs better than the process-oriented approach. Nevertheless, in our analysis, we also highlight strong interactions between some factors that make the selection between product-oriented and process-oriented ZDM difficult and complex.

Citation: Psarommatis F, May G. A Systematic Analysis for Mapping Product-Oriented and Process-Oriented Zero-Defect Manufacturing (ZDM) in the Industry 4.0 Era. Sustainability. 2023; 15(16):12251

Link: https://doi.org/10.3390/su151612251

Optimization of Zero Defect Manufacturing Strategies: A Comparative Study on Simplified Modeling Approaches for Enhanced Efficiency and Accuracy

user — Tue, 30 Jan 2024 11:55:02 +0000

Want to learn more for manufacturing strategies? Read the latest paper titled “Optimization of Zero Defect Manufacturing Strategies: A Comparative Study on Simplified Modeling Approaches for Enhanced Efficiency and Accuracy”.

Abstract: This paper presents a comparative analysis of three distinct Zero Defect Manufacturing (ZDM) strategies: Detection – Repair (DR), Detection – Prevention (DP), and Prediction – Prevention (PP). We evaluated these strategies based on their effectiveness in optimizing ZDM parameters, considering the specific needs and constraints of various manufacturing setups. Our analysis found that while DR and DP simulation models closely reflected original results, PP models demonstrated lower predictability, underscoring the need for further research and specialized modeling approaches. Nonetheless, the selection of an optimal strategy was determined to be context-dependent, hinging on the characteristics of the manufacturing system. The study also highlights the necessity of validating these strategies across diverse manufacturing setups to assess their performance and suitability. This research augments the existing body of knowledge on ZDM, offering insights to drive future investigations for the development of robust, accurate, and efficient ZDM modeling techniques. The ultimate objective is to move modern manufacturing industries towards a zero-defect environment, thereby enhancing their efficiency, reliability, and overall productivity.

Citation: Foivos Psarommatis, Gokan May, Optimization of zero defect manufacturing strategies: A comparative study on simplified modeling approaches for enhanced efficiency and accuracy, Computers & Industrial Engineering, Volume 187, 2024, 109783, ISSN 0360-8352

Link: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cie.2023.109783

Αdvancing sustainability in industrial supply chains by embracing circular approaches & digital transformation

user — Tue, 30 Jan 2024 11:33:22 +0000

Hot off the press!! New paper for sustainability in industrial supply chains!

Abstract: Sustainable growth has been assuredly connected with the integration of circularity, sustainability, innovation and resiliency into the value chains. Towards this path drives the recently updated European Circular Economy Action Plan (CEAP, 2020), a fundamental component of Europe’s agenda for sustainability and resiliency, the European Green Deal (EU Green Deal, 2019). On the other hand, Europe foresees achieving both a green transition and digital transition during the Digital Decade, focusing mainly on high energy-consuming industrial facilities towards a net-zero industries concept. The green transition, as being reinforced by circularity, is called to accompany the digital transition towards climate neutrality, a target that has been underlined as a key requirement in the EU’s green agenda (Digital Europe, 2022). The industrial environments, as an intensive energy consumer, aspires to move towards green and digital transition, where the efficient management of resources, the need for prevention and the circular designing and planning, have shown the path towards alternative approaches, new technologies and services, and cutting-edge solutions. Digitalisation technologies, circular supply chains, secondary raw materials, integrated sustainability frameworks and standards, digital twins and cognitive digital twins, the newly introduced DPPs – Digital Product Passports, are some of the solutions and tools that assemble to facilitate a green and digital transition, considering the circular economy aspects, and targeting to resiliency and sustainability. Under this scope, the Horizon Europe Plooto project valorises on available sustainability and governance frameworks and models to design and develop an integrated methodological approach for “closing-the-loop” in industrial value chains, the Sustainability Balanced Scorecard Framework. This framework is demonstrated in three robust use cases, representing the food and manufacturing sectors. The ordinary supply chains of a citrus juice company in Greece, the processes of managing Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) for magnets and Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) for drones, are assessed using the Sustainability Balanced Scorecard, to empower the business opportunities, to enhance traceability and lead to sustained value chains.

Citation: Aryblia, Maria; Sarantinoudis, Nikolaos; Tsinarakis, George; Arampatzis, George, Αdvancing sustainability in industrial supply chains by embracing circular approaches & digital transformation, INDIGO

Link: https://www.indigo.tuc.gr/publications/

Enabling sustainability and resilience in industries through the value chains’ circularity and digitalisation

user — Sun, 28 Jan 2024 08:26:27 +0000

New paper alert ! Read through the abstract of the paper “Enabling sustainability and resilience in industries through the value chains’ circularity and digitalisation” by Aryblia M., Sarantinoudis N., Tsinarakis G., Arampatzis G. and find the link at the end of the post to get to experience the whole article.

Abstract: Living for the last decades in a linear world has emerged the necessity for resources reduction, reuse, and recycling, leaving behind the “take-make-waste” economic model and jumping over towards a cyclical ecologic system. Especially for the industrial environments, the efficient management of resources, the need for prevention and the circular designing and planning, have shown the path towards alternative approaches, new technologies and services, and cutting-edge solutions. Digitalisation technologies (Digital Twins, big data analysis, etc.), secondary raw materials, circular supply chains, integrated sustainability frameworks and standards, Digital Product Passports, are some of the solutions, services and tools that assemble to facilitate a green and digital transition, considering the circular economy aspects, and targeting to resiliency and sustainability. Under this scope, three industries focus on transforming their supply chains into circular, green and sustainable ones using advanced traceability approaches. The ordinary supply chains of a citrus juice company in Greece, the processes of managing Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) for magnets and Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) for drones, are assessed using the Sustainability Balanced Scorecard, to empower the business opportunities, to enhance traceability and lead to sustained value chains.

Citation: Aryblia M., Sarantinoudis N., Tsinarakis G., Arampatzis G., Enabling sustainability and resilience in industries through the value chains’ circularity and digitalisation, CIRCULAR ECONOMY AND BIOECONOMY, ISSN: 2944-9820

Link: https://cms.gnest.org/cest2023/p/cest202300568

Digital Product Passport – A Pathway to Circularity and Sustainability in Modern Manufacturing

user — Tue, 09 Jan 2024 16:22:25 +0000

It is our great pleasure to present you with the new paper relevant to the Plooto project.

The open access paper entitled Digital Product Passport: A Pathway to Circularity and Sustainability in Modern Manufacturing by Foivos Psarommatis and Gökan May explores Digital Product Passport (DPP) Systems. In particularly, bellow you can find the paper abstract as well as the link to the Sustainability Journal where it was published.

Abstract: The primary aim of this study is to explore and understand the potential benefits and applications of the Digital Product Passport (DPP) system within the modern manufacturing industry. To achieve this, we developed a unique methodology, model, and a template for creating a DPP, identifying the key characteristics essential for effective implementation. Our approach involved an analysis of the literature and the formulation of a unified DPP framework, tailored to enhance supply chain transparency and support sustainable manufacturing practices. The empirical findings from our research demonstrate the DPP’s impact on supply chain transparency, providing crucial product lifecycle information that bolsters decision-making and facilitates optimal resource management. Additionally, our study suggests that the DPP model, when applied to sectors such as electronics manufacturing, promises transformative results. This research underpins the pivotal role of DPPs in the future of manufacturing, highlighting their potential to catalyze a shift towards greater transparency and sustainability. Actionable guidelines are provided for manufacturers considering the adoption of this innovative system.

Citation: Psarommatis, F.; May, G. Digital Product Passport: A Pathway to Circularity and Sustainability in Modern Manufacturing. Sustainability 2024, 16, 396. https://doi.org/ 10.3390/su16010396

Link: https://www.mdpi.com/2071-1050/16/1/396