ASIA facilitated by cloud computing platforms . These solutions enable the real-time computing of products and process data in order to support predictive quality and maintenance models . Another area of interest for Nexteer Automotive is virtual reality , as Rodriguez says that the technology could shorten manufacturing system design development cycles . By allowing the company to virtually approve aspects of equipment design such as material flow , ergonomics and workplace organisation before physical construction , virtual reality could enhance the efficiency of the manufacturing chain . Although the cost of labour in China is low , Nexteer Automotive also believes that Co-Bots ( Collaborative Robots ) could also be a cost-effective solution to the automotive industry . Co-Bots can collaborate safely with the operator , undertake work usually done by the operator , and can also perform critical inspection operations when coupled with an artificial vision system .
From a technology partnership perspective , one project that Rodriguez is excited about is the company ’ s joint venture with automotive supplier Continental . Focused on advancing motion control systems and components for automated driving , it is hoped that this venture will further accelerate advancements in automated driving to meet the demands of autonomous cars .
“ Nexteer is specialized in steering systems that laterally control the vehicle whilst Continental is a major player in longitudinal control ,” says Rodriguez . “ Therefore , the purpose of this venture is to create a fully integrated solution that allows for autonomous driving . It ’ s an important partnership because innovation is a key part of our community at Nexteer Automotive . Also , if we want to be a player in the coming years we need to be actively working to be ahead of the autonomous driving trend .”
Although a transformative force , Industry 4.0 doesn ’ t come without its challenges . Cybersecurity and data protection is of the utmost importance to the company and so Nexteer Automotive is keen to tackle the demands of innovation with care and precaution . “ Our products have
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