In the first step, the three groups identified sub-steps in production where automation could be helpful. In collaboration with the Robokind Foundation, they developed ideas on how these work steps could be automated and implemented them in the model in workshops.

“For the project, our trainees received an intensive training in robotics and programming, so they were able to implement their ideas independently at the end”, explains Renate Telgenkämper from HR department.
 

Exciting topics and successful pilot projects

For example, the deburring of threaded rods – a process step in the composites production – was carried out by the robot. The robot has also been used to automate the printing of workpieces or the automatic packaging of ring segments in the Lignostone® area.

The project TROIA offers trainees the chance to change the perspective: they were able to take a look at the sub-steps in production, independently of their own field of training, and see where sub-processes can be automated. The independent programming of robots is not a usual thing for our trainees and so an exciting and informative variety.

“It is important to me to show our trainees the possibilities of process automation with robotics in order to implement creative and pragmatic ideas together, “says initiator Dietmar Telgenkämper, Global Technical Director Maschined Components, who is delighted with the successful realization of the project.

About Robokind

The Robokind Foundation was founded in 2018 and its work aims to make robotics and artificial intelligence accessible to everyone. With the model project TROIA, the foundation promotes the topics in companies to counteract the shortage of skilled workers and to increase the attractiveness of companies that offer apprenticeships. The aim to develop a sustainable and long-term skilled labour strategy to strengthen the Hannover region and the state of Lower Saxony.

More information here: Robokind – Robotics for Mankind