Benteler

Problem Statement

At the Benteler facility in Klášterec nad Ohří, Czech Republic, operators faced challenges in loading carts with poles in a specific location to secure plates during pressing operations. The key problems identified were:

1. Loading Cart with Poles: Operators needed guidance to accurately position the poles on the cart while ensuring that the plates remained securely in place during pressing.
2. Infinite Product Variants: With a wide range of product variants, each requiring specific pole placement, operators faced the complexity of dealing with an infinite number of configurations.
3. Technical Drawing Database: Operators needed quick and reliable access to technical drawings to retrieve and communicate the required information for pole placement.

Arkite Platform Application

To address these challenges, Benteler implemented Arkite’s Operator Guidance Platform at their Klášterec nad Ohří facility. The key features and implementation details of the Arkite Platform were as follows:

1. Visual Guidance and Verification: Arkite’s Operator Guidance Platform provided operators with real-time visual guidance on where to place the poles. The system utilized X/Y coordinates to accurately indicate the desired pole placement location on the cart.
2. Project Setup: The implementation involved the use of one sensor and two projectors, which enabled precise projection of guidance instructions onto the workspace, assisting operators in executing their tasks efficiently and accurately.

Results

The deployment of Arkite’s Operator Guidance Platform at Benteler’s Klášterec nad Ohří facility yielded significant improvements and benefits:

1. Paperless Environment: By leveraging the digital guidance provided by the Arkite Platform, the facility was able to reduce its reliance on paper-based instructions. This transition to a paperless environment improved overall operational efficiency and reduced the time and effort spent on managing physical documents.
2. Efficiency Improvement: The Arkite Platform played a crucial role in enhancing both training and execution processes. Operators benefited from real-time visual guidance, leading to a reduction in errors and a significant improvement in task completion times. The streamlined workflow enabled operators to handle complex product variants more effectively.
3. Reduction of Mistakes: With the visual guidance and verification capabilities of the Arkite Platform, Benteler observed a reduction in errors related to pole placement. The system provided operators with clear instructions, minimizing the risk of inaccuracies and ensuring consistent and reliable execution of tasks.

Conclusion

Benteler’s partnership with Arkite and the implementation of the Operator Guidance Platform at their Klášterec nad Ohří facility resulted in remarkable improvements in efficiency, accuracy, and overall operational performance. The transition to a paperless environment, combined with real-time visual guidance, empowered operators to handle complex product variants effectively and reduce mistakes. By leveraging Arkite’s cutting-edge technology, Benteler further solidified its commitment to continuous improvement and operational excellence across its global operations.