Digitale Transformation

Digital Twin (DT) adoption remains a challenge due to high costs, complexity and lack of skills. This study proposes a cost-effective, TRL 5-validated DT model that can be built using open-source and office suite tools within just two weeks. Integrating real-time sensor data, predictive analytics, anomaly detection and notification, the model improves efficiency and sustainability in agriculture. Even with cloud service constraints, the system delivers a 7.76% average relative error and rapid, automated notifications. The findings show how open-source in combination with common commercial tools technologies can make advanced digital tools accessible to all, creating scalable, human-centered, and affordable solutions in line with Industry 5.0 principles.

Decisions affecting the sustainability of products are made during the engineering process. As product engineering progresses, statements on sustainability can also be substantiated. Initially, only estimates based on related products and processes are possible, but later, operational and machine data can be used. When metrics are used for key figures, the traceability of the data should be ensured. For this purpose, relevant data quality criteria and indicators are selected and analyzed for correlations. Data availability can be increased by relying on partners within data ecosystems for product engineering. Data spaces such as Gaia-X, Catena-X and Manufacturing-X form a basis for this ambition.

In the era of Industry 4.0, many industrial companies are facing major transformations. In the process of digitalization, factory management is adopting new technologies such as cognitive assistance systems, which has led to changes in work processes. Regarding assembly in the metal and electrical industries, it is unclear to what extent this development has promoted work-integrated learning. Therefore, the topic of this paper is a qualitative analysis that explores employees' perceptions of the learning opportunities and risks presented by cognitive assistance systems. Results: Not all assembly employees benefit equally from these new developments.

A decisive competitive factor for smaller and medium-sized manufacturers of one-of-a-kind and small batches is their products’ timely completion, delivery and commissioning. Precise logistics planning is just as important as production control. However, the processes are often characterized by uncertainties, e.g. due to local conditions at the customer or cooperation with suppliers. Digital shadows for data evaluation in real time offer a convincing solution.

Advances in information and communication technology (ICT) are opening up new opportunities for virtual collaboration. Shared leadership is a promising modern concept for overcoming challenges in the areas of communication, knowledge sharing and company loyalty. Empirical findings on shared leadership in virtual teams can shape recommendations on how successful leadership can support the virtualization of teamwork.