**Brussels**: Airbus has announced a partnership with Sensolus to use IoT tracking technology for better supply chain transparency. This collaboration focuses on developing a digital twin of production assets, enhancing operational efficiency, and improving inventory management, ultimately advancing aerospace innovation and customer satisfaction.
Aircraft manufacturer Airbus has announced a collaborative partnership with Sensolus, a specialist in connected asset management, with the aim of enhancing transparency across its supply chain and manufacturing operations. This collaboration leverages Internet of Things (IoT) tracking technology to monitor the movement of materials and logistics assets, thereby optimising workflows and increasing operational efficiency.
The partnership aligns with Airbus’ ongoing strategy to foster innovation in an increasingly digitalised environment, particularly as Industry 4.0 becomes a more prominent factor in the aviation sector. Airbus is committed to upholding the highest standards of quality and performance amid a rapidly evolving industry landscape.
A significant objective of this collaboration is the development of a “digital twin” for the assets integral to the production of aircraft components. Sensolus’ IoT tracking technology facilitates complete visibility of industrial assets throughout various workflows—both within and outside Airbus’ operational sphere. This comprehensive tracking of logistics assets is essential for the timely transportation of parts during production. As a result, Airbus anticipates avoiding delays, mitigating risks, and optimising its production chain, which collectively contribute to a more proactive and dependable production flow.
In addition to broad asset tracking, Airbus has incorporated Sensolus’ Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) technology to monitor specialised tools within its warehouses and workshops. This application not only enhances inventory management but also acts as a deterrent against theft, while permitting real-time visibility of tool locations. Such advancements have led to marked improvements in productivity.
A standout feature of this technology is its capability to swiftly address pressing tooling requirements across different workstations. IoT solutions allow Airbus to locate mislaid tools within minutes, which helps to minimise delays and disruptions in the workflow. This efficiency is crucial as it saves valuable time and streamlines the overall production process.
The relationship between Airbus and Sensolus transcends conventional supplier-customer dynamics. The partnership includes a dedicated customer success team at Sensolus, providing tailored support to ensure the seamless integration of the IoT solution into Airbus’ operations. Furthermore, Sensolus’ sophisticated algorithms guarantee a continuous flow of data, monitoring critical information regarding tracked assets across Europe and potentially beyond. The ongoing collaboration aims to propel the aerospace industry towards new heights in innovation, efficiency, safety, and customer satisfaction.
Pieter Claeys, Product Manager at Sensolus, expressed the expectations for the partnership, stressing its potential to shape the future of aerospace management.
Source: Noah Wire Services