Revolutionizing Industrial Connectors: How AI, Siemens, and Microsoft Are Transforming Manufacturing

In the rapidly evolving landscape of industrial manufacturing, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) has become a game-changer, streamlining processes and enhancing efficiency. A prime example of this transformation is the collaboration between HARTING, Siemens, and Microsoft, which has revolutionized the design and configuration of industrial connectors. This partnership has led to a significant reduction in design time, transforming a process that once took weeks into one that now takes mere minutes.

The Challenge of Connector Configuration​

HARTING, a renowned leader in industrial connectivity solutions, offers an extensive portfolio of over 27,000 products. For customers, navigating this vast array to find the perfect connector can be akin to searching for a needle in a haystack. The complexity is compounded by tight project deadlines and intricate technical requirements, making the selection process both time-consuming and frustrating.
As Norbert Gemmeke, Managing Director of HARTING's Business Unit Electric, aptly puts it, "We have been creating connectors for 80 years, and we are always interested in what’s next." This forward-thinking approach prompted HARTING to seek innovative solutions to simplify and expedite the connector selection and design process.

Bridging the Knowledge Gap with AI​

One of the primary hurdles in the connector selection process is the knowledge gap among customers. Many clients are not connectivity experts and may lack the specific vocabulary needed to articulate their requirements accurately. This often leads to delays and miscommunications.
To address this issue, HARTING developed the AI-guided Han® Configurator, powered by Microsoft Azure OpenAI Service and Microsoft Cloud for Manufacturing. This innovative tool allows customers to describe their needs in natural language. The AI then translates these inputs into precise technical specifications, guiding users to the appropriate product in just one minute. Additionally, customers can visualize their configurations in 3D, enhancing confidence in their selections.

Accelerating Custom Prototyping​

In instances where existing connectors do not meet specific requirements, HARTING's engineers utilize a companion tool developed by the company's Innovation Hub. This tool interoperates seamlessly with Siemens' NX and Simcenter, components of the Siemens Xcelerator portfolio, enabling the creation of custom prototypes in minutes instead of weeks. By automating repetitive tasks, engineers can focus on complex challenges and innovative research.
The AI assistant supports engineers by refining 2D layouts, verifying details, generating 3D models with Siemens' NX, and conducting basic thermal finite element method (FEM) simulations. This interoperability allows HARTING to deliver faster, smarter, and more intuitive solutions.

The Power of Collaboration​

The success of this initiative is a testament to the power of collaboration. Each company brought unique expertise to the table:

• HARTING contributed its deep knowledge of industrial connectors and customer needs.
• Siemens provided advanced design and simulation tools through its Xcelerator portfolio.
• Microsoft offered cutting-edge AI capabilities via Azure OpenAI Service and cloud infrastructure.

Simon Hagen, Senior Innovation Engineer at HARTING Technology Group, emphasizes the collaborative effort: "Each company brought unique knowledge to the table, and by working together with Siemens and Microsoft, we could build the modular architecture that made this project a reality."

Transformative Results​

The impact of this collaboration has been profound. Configuration times have plummeted from 15-20 minutes to just one minute, and prototypes that once took weeks to develop are now completed in minutes. This efficiency not only accelerates project timelines but also enhances customer satisfaction.
As Gemmeke notes, "Our salespeople are really shocked, in a positive way, with what is possible. There is more than acceptance. They want to have this."

Looking Ahead​

As the pace of innovation continues to accelerate, HARTING is poised to lead the charge. The company recognizes the critical role of strategic partnerships in this journey. Gemmeke states, "Having the right partners is crucial, and Microsoft is one of them. Together with Siemens, it’s perfect."
HARTING's commitment to collaboration and excellence positions it to stay ahead in an ever-evolving industry. The integration of AI into the design and configuration process is a significant step forward, and the company is convinced that development cycles will continue to shorten as a result.

Conclusion​

The collaboration between HARTING, Siemens, and Microsoft exemplifies how AI can revolutionize traditional manufacturing processes. By leveraging AI to bridge knowledge gaps, accelerate design and prototyping, and enhance collaboration, these companies have set a new standard for efficiency and innovation in industrial connector design.
As industries worldwide continue to embrace digital transformation, partnerships like this serve as a blueprint for harnessing technology to meet complex challenges and drive progress.

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Source: Siemens Digital Industries Software Newsroom HARTING reduces design time from weeks to minutes