Digitization of the Drivetrain How Artificial Intelligence Optimizes Drives

From Ute Drescher | Translated by AI 3 min Reading Time

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With the Drivetrain Analyzer Cloud, Siemens presents a cloud-based solution that utilizes artificial intelligence. The approach aims to increase the efficiency of drive systems by up to 20% and reduce CO2 emissions.

The integration of drive systems into existing industrial IT and OT landscapes is easily achieved through the innovative plug-and-play concept of the Drivetrain Analyzer Cloud.(Image: Siemens)
The integration of drive systems into existing industrial IT and OT landscapes is easily achieved through the innovative plug-and-play concept of the Drivetrain Analyzer Cloud.
(Image: Siemens)

Industrial companies are under increasing pressure: they must improve their energy efficiency while minimizing their CO2 footprint. The drivetrain, consisting of frequency converters, motors, pumps, and other components, consumes a particularly high amount of energy. With the Drivetrain Analyzer Cloud, a solution from the Xcelerator portfolio, Siemens aims to support companies in significantly reducing the energy consumption of their drive systems through energy-based maintenance.

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The integration of drive systems into existing industrial IT and OT landscapes is easily achievable through the innovative plug-and-play concept of the Drivetrain Analyzer Cloud. "With the help of the Connection Module IOT, installation can be completed in just a few minutes," explains Jonas Harant, Head of Co-Creation & Sales Enablement, Digital Industries at Siemens AG. These modules measure raw data and automatically transmit it to the cloud. For companies with multiple locations, this solution offers significant strategic advantages: it enables centralized, cross-site data analysis, provides transparent comparison options between different production sites, and harmonizes monitoring and maintenance strategies. The cloud-based architecture allows for flexible scaling and, via API interfaces, integration into existing industrial systems. "This enables companies to manage their drive systems more efficiently and intelligently," Harant explains.

AI Identifies Optimization Potentials

The real core of the Drivetrain Analyzer Cloud lies in its artificial intelligence. The solution utilizes advanced AI algorithms that continuously analyze operational data and detect deviations from the optimal operating point. This analysis enables targeted actions, such as adjusting motor controls or maintenance intervals, which can directly achieve energy savings of up to 20%. "Particularly innovative is the cloud's ability to automatically identify inefficient motors and suggest more efficient alternatives," emphasizes Jonas Harant.

The collected sensor data provides a detailed insight into the performance of drive systems. Daily, complex raw data snapshots are generated and analyzed using FFT analysis and specially trained analytical models. The sensors measure mechanical parameters such as bearing conditions, imbalance, and misalignments, as well as electrical characteristics such as power, torque, and operating states. But the Drivetrain Analyzer Cloud goes even further: it combines condition monitoring with decarbonization by also providing users with important data and actionable recommendations regarding CO₂ emissions, energy consumption, and energy costs. An intelligent traffic light system signals potential problems: the yellow warning level indicates slight deviations, while red signifies critical conditions requiring immediate action. "Because vibration data is captured, it is also possible to monitor components outside of low-voltage motors," Harant explains. "This enables a comprehensive analysis of the drivetrain."

The Drivetrain Analyzer Cloud is a key element for sustainable production processes.

Jonas Harant, Head of Co-Creation & Sales Enablement, Siemens

In addition to reducing energy costs, the Drivetrain Analyzer Cloud supports sustainable production. It comprehensively documents the energy consumption and CO2 emissions of the drives, provides comparisons with more efficient motors, and calculates potential savings. This data integration into overarching energy management systems ensures a holistic view of a company's sustainability.

One of the standout features is the Siemens Industrial Copilot. This generative AI-based chatbot simplifies the use of the technology by supporting users in their native language. It provides assistance in interpreting data and suggests optimization measures. "This is a response to the skills shortage," explains Jonas Harant, highlighting the advantage. "The chatbot makes access to this technology easier."

Overcoming Hurdles in Implementation

Challenges in implementing the solution in heterogeneous system landscapes and scaling it are addressed by Siemens with the Connection Module IOT, which enables seamless integration with existing systems. While connecting to outdated and proprietary systems often requires specialized interfaces, the system offers tailored connectors and leverages the support of the Industrial Copilot for complex interpretation tasks. "Particularly valuable is the ability to ask specific questions and receive assistance with data analysis," says Harant.

"With our solution, the hurdles of data integration can be overcome," emphasizes Jonas Harant. The Drivetrain Analyzer Cloud exemplifies the next step toward digital transformation, characterized by increased energy efficiency and sustainable operation. This technology thus makes an important contribution to achieving climate goals and an efficient production infrastructure.

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