A global solar cell and module manufacturer sought to improve real-time visibility into production execution and order status while establishing end-to-end traceability across the manufacturing lifecycle. The existing environment required seamless integration between SAP, third-party embedded applications, machine controllers, and quality inspection systems to create a connected production ecosystem.
The organization also wanted to eliminate manual data entry, reduce dependence on Excel-based reporting and manual MIS processes, and automate the flow of production information across materials, users, machines, process parameters, quality checks, and rework activities. Additionally, the solution needed to enable faster, data-driven decision-making, improve production quality, and support greater operational efficiency through real-time manufacturing insights.
MES
SAP
OPC UA
Sun Simulator
Third-Party Embedded Applications
Machine Controllers
EL Testing Machines
AOI Testing Machines
Industrial Machine Connectivity by BOSCH SDS
A global solar cell and module manufacturer required real-time visibility into production order status and end-to-end traceability across its module manufacturing operations. Production information relating to materials, users, machines, process parameters, quality, and rework was fragmented across the manufacturing environment, while integrating SAP, third-party embedded applications, and machine controllers added further complexity.
The organization needed to move away from manual data entry, Excel-based processes, and manual MIS by establishing a connected MES environment. It also needed faster access to production and quality information to improve throughput, reduce material replenishment delays, strengthen quality, and enable more timely, data-driven manufacturing decisions.
Bosch SDS implemented an MES-led manufacturing environment that connected production operations, SAP, machines, testing systems, and embedded applications to create a more traceable and data-driven production process.
The connected MES environment replaced fragmented and manual production processes with real-time manufacturing visibility and integrated data flows. By connecting SAP, machines, testing systems, and production information, Bosch SDS helped create a more automated and traceable operation while enabling faster decisions and stronger quality outcomes.
100% elimination of manual data entry
3–5% improvement in data-based decisions
2–3% increase in quality
Automated SAP production postings
Eliminated Excel-based manual MIS
Faster material replenishment decisions
Reduced rework and improved yield
Real-time order status visibility
Improved process traceability
Historical module swapping records
Bosch SDS combines MES expertise, SAP integration, industrial machine connectivity, and manufacturing intelligence to connect the physical production environment with enterprise systems. In this case, Bosch SDS’s industrial connectivity solution and OPC UA enabled machine data acquisition and transformation into the MES environment, while integrations with SAP and third-party testing systems created a more connected manufacturing ecosystem.
The result is more than production monitoring: it establishes a connected digital thread from order to production, quality, rework, and completion, giving manufacturers the visibility and automation needed to improve throughput, quality, and operational responsiveness.
