Tech-Driven Transformation: Greaves Technologies Gears Up for the Future of Manufacturing

CXOToday has engaged in an exclusive interview with Suman Nelluri, CEO, Greaves Technologies

• Describe the core products and services offered by Greaves Technologies

Greaves Technologies offers an extensive suite of products and services that address a wide array of requirements throughout the product development life cycle.  Our Engineering and R&D services provide full-service engineering and R&D solutions.  Our expertise spans the entire product development life cycle, including design, computer-aided engineering, manufacturing, supply chain management, new product development, and supplier development.  In Embedded Systems, Greaves Technologies excels in developing both hardware and software components, delivering robust technological solutions.  Our Digital Services portfolio is equally impressive, featuring a variety of services that harness the power of cutting-edge technologies.  These include artificial intelligence, robotic process automation, cybersecurity, data analytics, visualisation, and implementing Software as a Service solution.

For the automotive sector, Greaves Technologies offers comprehensive engineering solutions that cover the entire automotive value chain.  This includes everything from concept to launch, design, development, manufacturing, and supply chain management.  Our additional capabilities are not to be overlooked, with services such as rapid prototyping, vehicle and emissions testing, durability testing and validation, benchmarking, EV powertrain development, and custom manufacturing.  Moreover, Greaves Technologies provides consulting expertise as a value-added service to its customers, further enhancing its comprehensive service offerings.  With a steadfast commitment to innovation, technological advancement, and continuous learning, Greaves Technologies is poised to remain at the forefront of disruptive technologies that influence automotive design life cycles.

• How does artificial intelligence contribute to improving efficiency and productivity in the manufacturing sector?

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming the manufacturing sector, boosting efficiency and productivity in many ways.  It helps manufacturers optimise processes, reduce costs, and improve product quality.  It can also help manufacturers make better decisions by providing real-time information and insights.  One of the most essential benefits of AI in manufacturing is its ability to improve maintenance operations by reducing downtime and enabling more flexible manufacturing workflows.  Automated quality control, facilitated by AI-powered image recognition, ensures meticulous inspection of products, eliminating human error and guaranteeing consistently high-quality output.

Manufacturers identify anomalies or outliers in their production processes through AI, which leads to improved product quality and reduced waste.  Furthermore, it optimises its supply chains by providing real-time data on inventory levels, demand, and shipping times.  Additionally, AI excels in robotic process automation, automating repetitive tasks such as data entry and inventory management.  This reduces labour costs and enhances overall operational efficiency by freeing up human workers for strategic activities.  Beyond the factory floor, AI is optimising smart logistics networks by analysing real-time data to determine the most efficient routes for delivery and transportation, reducing costs and minimising delays.

• What role does predictive maintenance play in manufacturing, and how does AI facilitate its implementation?

The significance of predictive maintenance in manufacturing lies in its ability to employ data analysis for forecasting maintenance needs, preventing unforeseen equipment failures, and minimising downtime.  Implementing AI plays a pivotal role in this process by utilising machine learning algorithms to analyse historical and real-time data.  This empowers manufacturers to proactively address potential issues before they escalate, thereby enhancing the reliability and efficiency of manufacturing operations.  Moreover, AI optimises maintenance schedules and extends the lifespan of machinery.

At Greaves Technologies, we are working on harnessing the power of AI algorithms to analyse real-time sensor data from electric vehicle powertrains.  This enables predictive maintenance, anticipating failures and facilitating preventive actions.  By adopting an AI-driven strategy, we ensure continuous operation and safety, addressing potential disruptions in the manufacturing process.  AI enhances the accuracy of failure prediction and enables immediate problem identification, thereby reducing downtime.  Furthermore, the continuous improvement of AI’s predictive capabilities creates a cycle of increased reliability and efficiency in manufacturing.

• Discuss the significance of cybersecurity measures in safeguarding manufacturing systems from cyber threats, especially in the era of interconnected devices.

Implementing cybersecurity measures is crucial for safeguarding data and systems’ confidentiality, integrity, and availability.  The manufacturing industry is particularly susceptible to cyber threats due to its critical nature and the potential for significant financial gains, making it a prime target for cybercriminals.  Manufacturing systems are susceptible to various cyber threats, including malware, ransomware, and phishing attacks.  The potential consequences of such attacks are severe, encompassing disruptions in the manufacturing process, production downtime, loss of intellectual property, and reputational damage.  To counter these threats, robust cybersecurity measures must be implemented.

Effective solutions involve securing historical system data, preventing the execution or installation of unauthorised software, detecting anomalous behaviour on networks, identifying modifications to hardware, software, or firmware, enabling secure remote access, and implementing user authentication and authorisation protocols.  Manufacturers can enhance protection by enforcing strict identity verification, employing multi-factor authentication, and implementing granular access controls to secure their most valuable assets.  This security architecture can also be extended to the supply chain, ensuring that partners and vendors adhere to the same rigorous security measures.

• What is that one technology that you think has played a pivotal role in the digital transformation of the manufacturing sector in India?

As the manufacturing sector in India undergoes digital transformation, various technologies are instrumental in this evolution, with Industry 4.0 standing out prominently.  Industry 4.0 refers to the fourth industrial revolution, which is marked by the incorporation of advanced digital technologies into manufacturing processes.  In India, the manufacturing industry is poised for a significant digital shift, and Industry 4.0 is currently at a crucial juncture within the country.

Aiming to contribute to the objective of elevating India’s manufacturing GDP to approximately 25%, over two-thirds of Indian manufacturers are actively embracing digital transformation by the year 2025.  Industry 4.0 applications, including data and analytics, the Internet of Things, Robotics, and three-dimensional printing, are gaining considerable traction in the Indian manufacturing landscape.  These technologies instigate transformative changes, benefiting businesses by enhancing supply chain management, optimising shop floor operations, and improving employee management.  The widespread adoption of Industry 4.0 indicates its pivotal role in steering the digital transformation of the manufacturing sector in India.

• Can you provide further details on the recent development that Greaves Technologies has entered into a Strategic Alliance partnership with Danisi Engineering? Additionally, could you elaborate on the workings and dynamics of this partnership?

Greaves Technologies has recently entered into a Strategic Alliance with Danisi Engineering, a leading Turin-based firm specialising in comprehensive vehicle engineering.  The partnership aims to establish a Global Competency Centre in India, enhancing research and development capabilities.  By leveraging their respective strengths, both companies plan to expand their service offerings in key markets such as India, the USA, and Europe.  This collaboration is expected to drive innovation and growth in the automotive engineering sector, particularly in vehicle dynamics development, handling, comfort, and active safety.  The alliance signifies a significant stride for Greaves Technologies in becoming a technology-driven global engineering R&D services enterprise, aligning with its commitment to staying at the forefront of disruptive automotive technologies impacting automotive design life cycles.