thyssenkrupp has implemented the first application for the Industrial Data Space, a new virtual data space in which companies can exchange information securely. The first use case is an information system for truck logistics at thyssenkrupp Steel Europe. It proves that the idea behind the Industrial Data Space works.

In the era of Industry 4.0 it is important to be able to move large amounts of data quickly and securely, both internally and between companies. Industrial Data Space aims to solve a basic problem that many PC users will know: The use of cloud services to share data with others involves risks. No-one knows how securely their information is saved, how long it will remain stored or what the service provider does with it. The Industrial Data Space aims to eliminate these uncertainties. There, users retain full control over their data.

thyssenkrupp Steel Europe handles roughly 20,000 trucks per month. With around 30 minutes available to load and unload each truck, any delays in arrival can quickly throw the entire schedule into disarray. To achieve greater flexibility, Germany’s biggest steel producer has introduced a solution that enables trucks en route to the company to continuously report their position in line with defined rules, for example using an app that drivers can download to their smartphone. Based on positional and traffic data and the routes the driver is likely to take, an algorithm immediately recognizes any holdups and the computer system then automatically suggests a new loading slot for the delayed truck without any human involvement.

Industrial Data Space is being developed by Fraunhofer Society in a project funded by the German Ministry of Education and Research. Users can define exactly which information may be made available to which partner and for how long. They know exactly what is happening with their data at all times and can set limits for the use of their information.

thyssenkrupp is playing a pioneering role in this forward-looking project, and not just as the first user: As Dr. Reinhold Achatz, Chief Technology Officer of thyssenkrupp and chairman of the Industrial Data Space Association says: “Our application is just a first example of the possibilities offered by the Industrial Data Space. Many more applications from other companies will follow very quickly.”

The Industrial Data Space Association was founded exactly one year ago. It now brings together more than 50 industrial partners. They formulate requirements for the platform and implement applications. Achatz: “The Industrial Data Space sets a global standard for data exchange between companies. Our aim is to establish this standard worldwide.”

thyssenkrupp is a diversified industrial group with traditional strengths in materials and a growing share of capital goods and services businesses. Around 155,000 employees in nearly 80 countries work with passion and technological expertise to develop high-quality products and intelligent industrial processes and services for sustainable progress. Their skills and commitment are the basis of our success. In fiscal year 2014/2015 thyssenkrupp generated sales of around €43 billion. Together with our customers we develop competitive solutions for the challenges of the future in the areas Mechanical, Plant and Materials. With our engineering expertise we enable our customers to gain an edge in the global market and manufacture innovative products in a cost- and resource-friendly way. For us, technical progress and innovations, allied with the combined strength of the Group, are key factors enabling us to meet current and future customer and market requirements around the world, grow on the markets of the future, and generate strong and stable earnings, cash flows and value growth.

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Source: https://www.thyssenkrupp.com/en/newsroom/press-releases/press-release-118944.html