AI-driven micro-factories lessening the scaling challenges  

By OEM Update Editorial June 5, 2024 6:46 pm IST

Emobi leverages AI for agile micro-factories while addressing scaling challenges with proprietary software. Bharath Rao, CEO of Emobi, focuses on IoT-integrated distributed manufacturing and advanced robotics for efficiency.

What approaches can redefine production efficiency to scale up manufacturing?

Integrating IOT systems and distributed manufacturing facilities managed through centralised procurement, supply chain management, and design teams would be the ideal way to minimise costs and optimise production efficiency despite the complexities of managing distributed manufacturing facilities.

The other approach would be to build mega factories with large-scale integration of advanced robotics and automation processes. This process ensures production in large volumes at optimal costs, with most of the capex involved built into the vehicle cost and recovered from the sale of the products.

How can you leverage advanced robotics to improve productivity?

An automated facility with extensive robotics needs the product design to be frozen for mass manufacturing. If the products are proven and require minimal changes, advanced robotics and automation would significantly reduce the assembly-related risks and maximise productivity.

How is Emobi using AI to enhance its distributed manufacturing model and benefit local markets?

Emobi is looking to innovate building software and core competencies by applying generative AI into a distributed manufacturing model consisting of micro-factories closer to the point of consumption. Our approach is built to be agile, allowing us the flexibility to change models and SOPs. This agile approach towards manufacturing, while working with multiple micro-factory partners, sustainably creates employment and upskilling in local markets closer to the point of consumption.

How do you tackle challenges to scale up manufacturing processes?

The key challenge is the supply chain while manufacturing through distributed decentralised micro-factories. The demand for the same level of quality and conformance with our SOPs across micro-factories are the key challenges we are looking to address through our proprietary software platforms. 

How do you create a culture of learning and upskilling workers?

We believe that our micro-factories act as training centres for upskilling workers and empower them with the software tools to act as ready reckoners. The learning route guides to assist them in their professional and career growth.

What are the advantages of the Make in India initiative?

The Make in India scheme has elements that incentivise localised manufacturing and state-level subsidies. It is coupled with central subsidies, making our model more attractive to promote micro-factories, skill development and employment generation across the parts of the country.