IP2: Impulsprojekt 2: Vernetzungs- und Integrationstechnologien für eine individualisierte, wandlungsfähige und ressourcenoptimierte Lebensmittelproduktion

Technical processes in the field of food technology, in contrast to those in production technology, often cannot be described in detail and depend on complex parameter variations, such as environmental and raw material fluctuations or interactions on a molecular basis. Due to the large number of variations, today's process controls are often performed manually by experts. The transfer of Industry 4.0 approaches from manufacturing technology to food technology is a challenge addressed in this project.

The goal is to develop an individualized, versatile, and resource-optimized food production. The focus is on the development of suitable analytical methods to derive the maturity level for the introduction of Industry 4.0 approaches. Another focus is the development of new photonic methods to test the quality of food products. In several subprojects, selected manufacturing processes are analyzed in order to subsequently redesign them with Industry 4.0 concepts. The aim is to realize Industry 4.0 based solutions for the food industry in different areas that benefit the consumer.

In this novel research field, Industry 4.0 relevant methods for the food industry are adapted and new solutions for the individualization of food are developed. The research project is very application-oriented, has economic potential and a high scientific and technical level. The project complements and strengthens the competence fields at the institutes ILT.NRW and inIT, since food technology in combination with industrial information technology and data analysis will receive a significant weight in the context of "Digital Transformation / Industry 4.0".