Our most significant digital transformation has been the integration of private 5G networks into our manufacturing operations: Shankar Vishwanathan, CIO, Sundaram Clayton
In an exclusive interaction with Express Computer, Shankar Vishwanathan, CIO, Sundaram Clayton, highlights how enterprises have been adopting technology and undergoing rapid modernisation. He explains that as a key player in the industry, his organisation has navigated a transformative journey driven by a mix of advanced technologies. Their digital transformation leverages both on-premises and cloud solutions, integrating IIoT devices to enhance manufacturing data management. This hybrid approach is complemented by a shift towards AI and machine learning, including generative AI models and Large Language Models (LLMs). The most significant advancement has been the adoption of private 5G networks, which revolutionised their operations with robotics, vision-based quality control, and material-handling robots. Vishwanathan also highlights future AI trends, including AI-based platforms for safety and material-handling robots, which promise to further advance the industry’s capabilities.
What technologies have been most impactful in your digital transformation journey?
The repertoire of technologies is vast today. Enterprises like ours adopt newer technologies when they offer clear business benefits and defined outcomes. While some technology adoption is a natural progression, others are chosen specifically for their beneficial outcomes. Our data is hosted both on-premises and in the cloud, and this hybrid approach will continue for some time, as we won’t be moving all of our digital assets to the cloud immediately.
We generate a substantial amount of data from our manufacturing equipment. This data is collected, processed, and pushed into the cloud for improved data control and access to reporting platforms, while our business data remains on-premises for now. In addition to cloud technology, we have deployed IIoT (Industrial Internet of Things) devices across our plants.
As a legacy business undergoing rapid modernisation, our transformation efforts include digitising analogue records and developing a digitalisation roadmap that encompasses our entire operations. With the vast volume of data being generated, embracing AI/ML is the next logical step. We are currently testing generative AI models and training Large Language Models (LLMs).
Our most significant digital transformation technology has been the implementation of private 5G networks within our manufacturing operations. This has been a game changer, providing a robust platform for deploying cutting-edge technologies such as robotics, vision-based quality control, material-handling robots, and machine telemetry.
Can you discuss any recent implementations of Industry 4.0 technologies within your organisation?
We are actively implementing several aspects of Industry 4.0 within our organisation. Key initiatives include:
- Improvements in Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE)
- Predictive maintenance
- Digital performance management
- Quality management and quality analytics
- Condition-based monitoring
- Hourly production tracking
Additionally, we are working on solutions for digital twin technology, connected workforce, Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives, and AI-based quality control, among others. Our three-year roadmap includes a comprehensive AI/ML overlay designed to drive enhanced business performance.
How are you preparing for the shift towards electric and autonomous vehicles?
Our approach to this shift is driven by customer demands. We are adapting our manufacturing processes to meet the requirements of electric vehicles (EVs) and developing products that align with the growing demand for EV components. Typically, EVs require more structural parts compared to internal combustion engine (IC) vehicles, so we are focusing on improvements in design, metallurgical processes, and manufacturing techniques to meet these needs.
Can you share your approach to handling data privacy and compliance with global standards?
We are aligning our data acquisition and storage practices with the Data Protection and Privacy (DPDP) laws in our country. This involves implementing consent declarations, reviewing workflows, and updating data usage and storage policies. Our IT security policies are also designed to comply with international standards, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Additionally, we will appoint a dedicated Data Protection Officer to ensure regulatory compliance and address any related concerns.
As a CIO, how do you balance driving innovation and maintaining operational stability?
Technology is constantly evolving, and the benefits it can bring to the enterprise are immense. In manufacturing enterprises like ours, the opportunity to evaluate and integrate new technologies is significant, especially when building new factories. This provides a unique advantage, as we don’t have to contend with the constraints of existing legacy systems. The transition to innovative solutions is smoother and more straightforward during these times. When the return on investment (RoI) is substantial, operationalising these innovations becomes much easier and more effective.
What future AI trends do you foresee having a significant impact on your industry?
We are actively introducing AI across various areas of our operations. Our new manufacturing plants will be equipped with AI-based platforms for enhancing employee safety, plant security, and sustainability. One of our major AI initiatives involves deploying material-handling robots to ensure the safe and efficient movement of production materials within the plant. This development represents a significant advancement beyond traditional manufacturing process improvements.
