Lifecycle Engineering of Future Automation Systems in the Automotive Powertrain Sector

This paper provides a brief insight into some of the key issues related to meeting the future requirements for automation systems in an agile manufacturing context. In particular the needs of the automotive powertrain sector are considered, and a new Technology Cycle Plan initiative by the Ford Motor Company is described, which aims to fundamentally enhance the capabilities of Ford´s automation systems in a lifecycle engineering context. Ongoing research at Loughborough University, which has shown the potential value of adopting a lifecycle engineering approach to automation, is briefly reviewed, and the opportunities for more virtual engineering and greater functional modularity in future automation systems are highlighted. Attention is also drawn to the importance of establishing effective partnerships between the major players in the automation supply chain, e.g., the controls vendors, digital engineering tool vendors, machine builders and end-users, in the realisation of the enhanced automation systems of the future.