Siemens Electronics Factory Erlangen (GWE) exemplifies as a Lighthouse Factory how Edge Computing and Artificial Intelligence can be practically implemented in electronics production. The digitalization approach encompasses four sequential stages: connecting production equipment through OPC UA and edge devices, visualizing data via KPI dashboards, implementing automated closed-loop applications, and deploying self-learning AI models for defect prevention. A particular focus lies on innovative, partially patented use cases in the THT soldering line. A highlight is the patented thermal imaging use case for intelligent flux AOI problem detection, where thermal cameras coupled with AI algorithms enable early detection of process deviations.
