Audi Launches Edge Cloud 4 Production with vPLC for Smart Factory Use

Audi revealed that it has launched its Edge Cloud 4 Production (EC4P) IT-focused factory automation project utilizing the initial virtual programmable logic controller (vPLC) at its Böllinger Höfe facility in Germany.

A regional server cluster has been established on the production site to manage the worker support systems for two production cycles of the Audi e-tron GT quattro, RS e-tron G, and Audi R8 models. Moreover, EC4P will enable Audi to reallocate the computing power needed by the production line to local data processing centers while also customizing EC4P for additional applications in the Audi Production Lab (P-Lab).

The VCF private cloud platform allows Audi to streamline the oversight and upkeep of specialized industrial PC systems situated on the factory floor, ease the process of security updates and risk management, and minimize environmental impact through reduced hardware usage and fewer manual tasks.

“The use of virtual programmable logic controllers in the body shop is an important productivity leap in our 360 factory strategy for efficient and data-driven manufacturing,” said Audi board member for production Gerd Walker. “We want to bring the local cloud for production to all plants and leverage advances in digital control systems in the process.”