SEOUL—Hyundai Motor Group, the parent of automakers Hyundai and Kia, and supplier Hyundai Mobis, recently revealed the smart factory technologies that it’s deploying in assembly plants. The E-Forest Tech Day also presented the company’s vision for its future transition to a software-defined factory (SDF) system.
The event encouraged “technological exchange and mutual growth” among Hyundai Group companies and partners. Cutting-edge production technology on display included artificial intelligence, automated logistics and assembly tools, data twins and robotics.
“The focus of the event is to share and discuss pioneering technologies that we believe will shape the future of manufacturing plants,” says Jae Min Lee, vice president and head of E-Forest Center of Hyundai Motor and Kia. “This event is a crucial step in our ongoing efforts to incorporate these innovative technologies into our production facilities.
“The letter ‘E’ signifies a commitment to achieving progress in the entire mobility industry environment in a manner that is both efficient and economical,” explains Lee. “E-Forest, which SDF is based on, is set to become a production hub for software-defined vehicles. It aims to deliver products that cater to customer requirements faster than any other, through data connection and digital transformation.
“As the SDF is established in the future, enhanced manufacturing intelligence and increased flexibility will be achieved,” claims Lee. “This will enable data and software-based decision making and factory operations. The anticipated benefits include a shorter production preparation period, improved production speed, reduced investment costs for new vehicle introductions and enhanced quality.”
The initiative includes technology such as:
- Atypical Flexible Parts (HOSE) Automatic Assembly Technology. The program recognizes irregular parts, such as hoses and wires, through an AI vision algorithm. It automatically calculates the picking point and issues control commands. “This technology is essential for autonomous factory operations when humanoid robots are introduced into factories,” says Lee.
- Infinite Multi-Axis Holding Fixture. This tool is designed to improve flexibility in assembly plants. It allows various parts, such as doors, hoods and wheels, to be assembled using a single fixture. “When a part changes, the corresponding information is automatically input into the PC, automatically moving the fixture’s part fixing point and eventually fixing the part structure,” explains Lee.
- SPOT! Industry-Wide Solution. This technology can perform real-time safety inspections and equipment checks in factories. This is achieved by introducing intelligent inspection technology that uses AI, vision processing and big data processing. “Various sensors equivalent to eyes, nose and mouth are used in this technology,” says Lee.
