Well-
defined
Value network modeling for the software-defined resilient production of the future
Contact person
David Dietrich, M.Sc.
Institute for Control Engineering of Machine Tools and Production Facilities at the University of Stuttgart
Well-defined
Well-defined's vision is sustainable, cost-effective and self-optimized production. To achieve this, resilient value creation networks must be created in order to react dynamically to changes and achieve sustainable goals such as CO2 reduction.
About the Project
The flexibility and adaptability that were achieved in a single production unit in the previous FluPro project are to be projected onto the entire value chain in the Well-defined follow-up project. To this end, the classic value chain is to be modeled as a new type of value network in which products can configure themselves. For example, changing requirements and optimization goals in the network can trigger different products in order to react flexibly to disruptions or achieve comprehensive goals such as the reduction of CO2 consumption. ARENA2036's strategic research focus on Production2036 concentrates on improving cross-location production planning and processes.
Aims of the project
The goal of Well-defined is to model products and production within the context of a value-added network. Consistent communication and interfaces within the network and on the shop floor thereby enable greater resilience, more dynamic product customization, and increased production efficiency. Defined data structures and interfaces facilitate dynamic orchestration of production planning. This enables the efficient management of product and component specifications as well as production resources to efficiently implement changes in the value chain. A core aspect of the project is the development of an adaptive Value Chain Execution System (VCES) that integrates Industry 4.0 services and dynamically resolves potential conflicting objectives—such as the CO2 footprint in production—in a customer-specific manner. This leads to increased flexibility in production, which also impacts how people work in the factory by promoting flexible collaboration with equipment and machines.
Info decks
Further information can be found in the Infodeck:
Infodeck in German (as of 05.11.2025)
Infodeck in English (Status 05.11.2025)
360-degree tour
Here you can take a virtual tour of the Well-Defined project area on our shop floor.
About BÄR
BÄR Automation GmbH is one of the leading specialists in the planning, design, and manufacture of customized, client-specific system solutions in the field of assembly and automation technology, as well as a system integrator for forward-looking applications in robotics and assembly technology. As one of the leading manufacturers of automated guided vehicle (AGV) systems, the company provides customized automation concepts.Project Participation in ARENA2036
Links
About Fraunhofer
Project Participation in ARENA2036
Project partners in the ARENA2036 research factory are the two Fraunhofer Institutes IAO and IPA.
The Fraunhofer IPA develops highly innovative and sustainable solutions in production engineering and automation for customers in a wide range of future-oriented industries. These solutions are always aligned with the institute’s strategic cornerstones of “Mass Sustainability” and “Mass Personalization.”
In ARENA2036, Fraunhofer IPA is coordinating research into innovative methods in vehicle production. To this end, a research factory is being built in which technologies are developed that enable individualized products in batch sizes of one at the cost of mass production. The core technology for this is adaptable production systems with which companies can react to fluctuating competitive factors or shortened product life cycles. Fraunhofer IPA develops solutions for planning these systems and realizes components for them, such as versatile assembly stations.
About Mercedes-Benz Group AG
Mercedes-Benz Group AG is one of the world’s most successful automotive companies. With its business divisions—Mercedes-Benz Cars, Daimler Trucks, Mercedes-Benz Vans, Daimler Buses, and Daimler Financial Services—the automaker ranks among the largest providers of premium passenger cars and is the world’s largest commercial vehicle manufacturer.Project Participation in ARENA2036
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About Pilz
Pilz is an internationally active, innovative automation technology company. With its solutions, Pilz creates safety for man, machine and the environment, and its products include sensor technology, electronic monitoring devices, safety relays, configurable and programmable control systems, automation solutions with motion control, systems for industrial communication as well as visualization solutions and operator terminals.Project Participation in ARENA2036
About TRUMPF
The high-tech company TRUMPF offers manufacturing solutions in the fields of machine tools, laser technology and electronics. TRUMPF is driving forward the digital networking of the manufacturing industry through consulting, platform and software offerings. The company is the technology and market leader in machine tools for flexible sheet metal processing and industrial lasers.Project Participation in ARENA2036
About the University of Stuttgart
Project Participation in ARENA2036
The University of Stuttgart and many of its institutes are involved in the ARENA2036 research platform:
Institute for Aircraft Structures (IFB)
Institute for Parallel and Distributed Systems (IPVS)
Institute for Plastics Technology (IKT)
Institute for Textile Technology, Fiber-Based Materials, and Textile Machinery (ITFT)
Institute for Control Engineering of Machine Tools and Manufacturing Equipment (ISW)
Institute for Industrial Engineering and Technology Management (IAT)
Institute for Internal Combustion Engines and Automotive Engineering (IVK)
Institute for Electrical Energy Conversion (iew)
Institute for Educational Science, Department of Vocational, Business, and Technical Education (BWT)
Institute for Power Transmission and High-Voltage Engineering (IEH)
Institute for Polymer Chemistry (IPOC)
Institute for Linguistics: English Studies (IfLA)
Institute for Industrial Manufacturing and Plant Operations (IFF)
Institute for Material Handling and Logistics (IFT)
Institute for Beam Tools (IFSW)
The Institute of Aircraft Design (IFB), for example, is involved in the LeiFu project and the DigitPro project with several employees in ARENA2036. The Khoch3 project is supported by university employees from BWT.
The integration of the ARENA2036 research building into the university campus forms the perfect basis for an intensive and interdisciplinary transfer of expertise between science and industry. This is what the guiding principle "Industry on Campus" stands for.
Associates
Partner
About Balluff
Balluff was founded in 1932 in Neuhausen auf den Fildern and stands for innovative technology, quality and cross-industry experience in industrial automation worldwide. As a leading sensor and automation specialist, the fourth-generation family business offers a comprehensive portfolio of sensor, identification and network technologies and software for integrated system solutions.Project Participation in ARENA2036
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About Schaeffler
For over 70 years, the Schaeffler Group—a leading global automotive and industrial supplier—has been driving forward pioneering inventions and developments in the fields of motion and mobility. With innovative technologies, products, and services in the fields of CO₂-efficient powertrains, electromobility, Industry 4.0, digitalization, and renewable energy, the company is a reliable partner in making motion and mobility more efficient, smarter, and more sustainable. The technology company manufactures precision components and systems for powertrains and chassis, as well as rolling and plain bearing solutions for a wide range of industrial applications.Project Participation in ARENA2036
Funding Agencies and Project Implementers in the Project
About Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF)
The BMBF stands for the Federal Ministry of Education and Research in Germany. It is a federal agency responsible for funding education and research programs within Germany. The main objectives of the BMBF include promoting science and research to maintain the country's international competitiveness, improving educational opportunities for people at all stages of life and supporting innovation and technology development. The Ministry works closely with educational and research institutions, industry and international partners to achieve its goals.Project Participation in ARENA2036
The "Research Campus - Public-Private Partnerships for Innovation" initiative of the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) is a funding program that aims to strengthen cooperation between science and industry in Germany. This initiative enables public research institutions and companies to work together in long-term partnerships to develop and carry out innovative research projects. The idea behind it is to create an environment in which science and industry can work together on pioneering technologies and solutions that promote both scientific progress and economic development.
The research campus initiative supports selected projects in various technological and scientific fields, from renewable energy and sustainable mobility to digital technology and health sciences. The aim of these partnerships is to enable a direct transfer of knowledge and technology between research institutions and industry, which accelerates the market launch of new technologies.
About Project Management Agency Karlsruhe
The Project Management Agency Karlsruhe (PTKA) is part of the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) and offers a wide range of services related to the funding of research, development, and educational projects. Its responsibilities include, among other things, advising applicants for funding, evaluating project proposals, monitoring ongoing projects, and disseminating and utilizing research results.Project Participation in ARENA2036
Links
https://www.zukunft-der-wertschoepfung.de/forschungscampus/