Feature Automotive supply chain
support application-to-application connectivity across multiple systems in a cost-effective manner that now makes it possible for automotive man- ufacturers to respond quickly to changing customer and supplier demands. For example, ERP can sup- port ‘available-to-promise’ decision- making scenarios, providing delivery alternatives in the event of unexpected disruptions.
supply chain management an achiev- able reality. And it’s this unique ability to inte- grate external business processes and
The Microsoft ERP manufacturing update job wizard screen
Supply chain optimisation Supply chain optimisation is also pos- sible. Powerful inventory management tools help to improve forecasting and planning, so supply and inventory levels can be fine-tuned to customer demand. While access to real-time data gives users faster access to the tasks and critical business intelligence
information - like key performance indicators - needed to optimise the supply chain. Finally, ERP makes it easy to simplify government and cor- porate compliance commitments by defining custom business rules and workflows based on risk scenarios. Today’s ERP solutions provide the vital backbone on which effective, cost-efficient and dynamic supply chain collaboration can take place. Alongside unleashing demand-driven production, manufacturers can respond faster to change, incorporate new customers and suppliers with ease, and adapt their operation ‘on the fly’ as business needs change.
Microsoft Dynamics T: 0845 700 1000
Enter 202
www.microsoft.com/en-gb/dynamics
Intelligent solutions save weight and increase quality and comfort
Johnson Controls has introduced a new production process for lightweight door panels made of natural fibres
J 12
ohnson Controls, a global leader in automotive seating, interiors and electronics, is providing a series of innovative door panels, seat struc- tures and instrument clusters for the new BMW 3 Series.
The door panels are made using a combination of natural fibers and plas- tic that are 20 per cent lighter than con- ventional components. The seat structures for the driver’s seat save three to four kilograms depending on the model. The instrument cluster fea- tures an Automotive Pixel Link (APIX*) high-speed, point-to-point connection. “With our innovative products, we are helping BMW make the new 3 Series comfortable and sustainable. We offer high-quality, lighter weight components that reduce fuel con- sumption,” says Beda Bolzenius, pres-
Johnson Controls makes the hybrid door panels for the new BMW 3 Series using a combination of natural fibres and plastic. They are 20 per cent lighter than conven- tional components
INSET: The basic instrument cluster for the new BMW 3 Series
*APIX is a regis- tered trademark of Inova
Semiconductors
ident of Johnson Controls Automotive Experience. “We also use renewable and environmentally-sound raw mate- rials in the interior components.” The non-visible door panel ele- ments for the new BMW 3 Series sedan and sports wagon models are largely made of wood fibre. The natural fibre carrier is directly molded with plastic. This production method makes the door panel considerably lighter. A state-of-the-art process known as groove lamination is used to apply the fabric or leather trim on the door panel. This process involves the trim being joined in recesses, eliminating the need for an additional component. Four special features characterise the seat structure of the new BMW 3 Series. The use of high-strength steel means it is both stable and light- weight. The low seat back pivot point makes the seat particularly comfort- able as it snugly fits the occupant’s back. The structure also offers a very finely graduated recliner to ensure the best sitting position. Adjusting motors using four-pole technology, in some cases with rare-earth magnets that have a stronger magnetic field than conventional ferrite magnets, are used in the electrically adjustable seats.
This means they need a smaller installation space and are approxi- mately 200g lighter. With up to four motors per seat, this also enables a sig- nificant weight reduction. The seat structures are modular in design. They are available with four and eight-way functionality for four and five-door models.
The basic instrument cluster for the new BMW 3 Series has day and night design and not only offers high-quality analog displays and LED pilot lights but also a 2.7-inch TFT display. The instrument cluster features a bidirec- tional APIX* high-speed point-to- point connection that facilitates robust image and control data transmission using just one interface. This technol- ogy is used in displays and stepper motors on the design circuit board to communicate with the electronics on the PCB (printed circuit board) behind it. Data are transferred at 250 megabits per second, with the APIX technology facilitating up to three gigabits per second. Johnson Controls has engi- neered new solutions with respect to software and electromagnetic compati- bility for the use of APIX. Johnson Controls
www.johnsoncontrols.co.uk
T: 01753 693919 Enter 203
JUNE 2012 Automation
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