This video was recorded by me for the United Manufacturing Hub In this first part of the UNS Basics mini series, we introduce the Automation Pyramid as a system to control the plant. We highlight the challenges related to data analytics and present the Unified Namespace as the solution. We also show how the Automation Pyramid connects to the Unified Namespace, according to the United Manufacturing Hub’s philosophy. Finally, we briefly discuss where historical data from the Unified Namespace is saved. ...

This week at Metal Connect, we, the hosts Denis Gontcharov and Luke van Enkhuizen, had a conversation about digital transformation in the aluminum industry. We delved deeper into Denis’s journey from an aluminum process engineer to a data consultant and the unique challenges and opportunities of digital transformation in this sector. If your current challenge is navigating digital transformation in the aluminum industry, then listen to this episode when you have a moment. ...

Article written for the United Manufacturing Hub. Why do we need the Unified Namespace if we already have the NAMUR Open Architecture? In this article, we compare the Unified Namespace (UNS) and NAMUR Open Architecture (NOA). First, we highlight that they both extend the traditional automation pyramid to enable industrial Internet of Things (IIoT). Second, both architectures outline a highly-reliable IT infrastructure. Third, both architectures are applicable to operate in manufacturing, chemical and pharma, all very conservative industry that are slow to adopt new technical innovations. ...

In this episode of the Smart Metals Podcast, hosts Dennis Gontcharov and Luke van Enkhuizen explore the challenges and common pitfalls of digitalization in the metals manufacturing sector. They discuss the high failure rate of digital transformation initiatives, the difficulty in transitioning from pilot projects to full-scale implementation, and the absence of comprehensive digital strategies with a focus on data infrastructure and quality. The conversation addresses the misalignment between IT and OT departments, the drawbacks of relying on legacy solutions, and the essential role of a unified data strategy in breaking down operational silos. ...

Navigating Digital Transformation in Multi-Site Enterprises. Do you struggle with managing digital transformation across multiple factories in different countries? Navigating cultural and technological disparities can be tricky. Let’s explore how enterprise manufacturers can overcome these challenges for successful multi-site deployments. In this episode of the Smart Metals Podcast, hosts Luke van Enkhuizen and Denis Gontcharov delve into the complex world of digital transformation across multi-site enterprises. They discuss the challenges and opportunities of deploying a unified digital strategy either top-down or bottom-up, exploring the pros and cons of each approach. The conversation highlights the difficulties of standardization across different cultures, languages, and technologies, and how these factors can impede seamless integration. They propose a middle-ground solution using a ‘unified namespace’ architecture to balance centralized control with local flexibility, aiming to streamline operations while respecting the unique needs of each site. The episode touches on practical advice for starting digital transformation initiatives, emphasizing the importance of addressing local problems within an overarching enterprise strategy. ...