Industrial production is facing major challenges, where sustainability, flexibility, and efficiency are critical for maintaining competitiveness in a rapidly evolving market. The EU-funded MODAPTO project is addressing these challenges by laying the foundation for flexible and sustainable production systems. This is achieved through the integration of production modules with distributed, interoperable digital twins.
As a partner of the project, EKS InTec GmbH leverages its extensive expertise in virtual commissioning and the digital development of automated production systems. The company collaborates closely with leading industry and research partners, such as FFT Produktionssysteme GmbH & Co. KG, to shape the future of manufacturing.
EKS InTec’s Role in MODAPTO
EKS InTec is deeply involved in the development of innovative digital solutions for automated production systems. The company covers the entire production life cycle—from planning to virtual commissioning—ensuring seamless integration of advanced capabilities into production processes.
A key focus here is on the expansion of production modules, such as robots with welding or roller hemming technologies, to integrate and supplement additional capabilities, for example regarding sustainability parameters. These innovations are seamlessly incorporated into the existing EKS tool landscape RF::SUITE which enables consistent use over the entire life cycle of the modules and systems – from planning and virtual commissioning to analysis during operation.
Advancing Standards for Interoperability
A cornerstone of the MODAPTO project is advancing industrial standards for digital twins. This includes the administration shell (AAS) and various sub-models such as “Provision of Simulation Models” or “Technical Data”. This is supplemented by tool-independent simulation and analysis options based on the Functional Mock-up Interface (FMI). These standards ensure interoperability, enabling efficient simulation, informed decision-making, and process optimisation.
MODAPTO’s Open-Source Vision
By the end of the project, MODAPTO will deliver an open-source toolkit that supports modular production and system reconfiguration. This toolkit will integrate interoperable digital twins enhanced by distributed intelligence at both module and global levels. It aims to empower sustainable production decisions while fostering new business models and strategies for modular manufacturing.
From Planning to Operation: An End-to-End Approach
The MODAPTO system enables end-to-end use across all phases of the production life cycle:
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Planning: Supports design decisions, module selection, and configuration.
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Virtual commissioning: Offers simulation, decision-making, and evaluation during development.
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Operation: Provides process analysis and optimisation for existing modules.
A Vision for the Future of Manufacturing
MODAPTO demonstrates how modern production can achieve unparalleled sustainability, flexibility, and efficiency. By integrating digital twins, advancing industrial standards, and delivering an open-source toolkit, the project is setting a new benchmark for modular, reconfigurable manufacturing.
EKS InTec provides innovative digital solutions and integrates them into its existing tool landscape. With the planned open-source toolkit, MODAPTO will not only support industrial production, but also set new standards for sustainable and flexible manufacturing.