VW Opens Manufacturing Tech Center in Wolfsburg

Volkswagen AG has opened a manufacturing innovation center at its Wolfsburg, Germany, plant to develop and test new production technologies.

The center focuses on six areas: digital, human-machine interaction (HMI), material flow and handling, body construction, assembly and ergonomics. VW says the facility allows engineers to conduct lengthy tests of new equipment and processes with factory workers in a real-world environment.

One of the digital apps being developed will immediately alert maintenance workers about equipment failures, including specific information about the source of the problem. The system also helps schedule routine maintenance procedures to enhance productivity, according to VW.

Engineers are using the center to test a new HMI system that teams line workers with a robot to improve ergonomics and productivity during the preassembly of drivetrain components. The pilot program is expected to run through the end of the summer and be implemented into series production later this year.

To improve material flow, engineers are developing a new automated-guided vehicle with a flat architecture and 360° turning mobility. VW says the AGV will reduce the need for forklifts and allow parts to be delivered directly where they’re needed in the assembly line without workers having to move them. The company plans to implement the system by year-end.