Comau is collaborating on the BATTwin project, an EU initiative focused on e-mobility, to enhance the quality of battery cell production.
The project aims to develop a multi-level digital twin platform to minimize defect rates, ultimately achieving zero-defect manufacturing in lithium-ion battery production lines. The organization says defect rates could reach 30% during the ramp-up phase of Europe’s new gigafactories.
Comau will use its digitalization expertise to identify key data parameters and implement a multi-sensor data acquisition strategy.
Funded by the European Commission, BATTwin is coordinated by Professor Marcello Colledani from the Polytechnic University of Milan (Italy) and aims to develop digital twins of battery factories by the end of the project in May 2027. Comau’s involvement includes leveraging its experience in digital twinning, process simulation and electrification to enable automatic data transmission to a cloud-based virtual environment.
Through discrete event simulation (DES) modeling, Comau says it aims to optimize workflows, analyze cycle times and manage energy consumption at a machine level. The approach is purposed for manufacturers to identify and prevent potential production issues in real time, to enhance quality and cost-effectiveness in battery cell production.
“Comau’s electrification strategy is founded upon innovative ideas and the continuous research and development of next-generation battery technologies, cell formation competencies and alliances with pan-European partners and organizations, such as Upcell,” explained Daniela Fontana, Comau’s battery innovation manager. “This project, which was conceived within the framework of various Upcell discussions, aligns perfectly with our future-focused technology roadmap.”
Comau also has industry alliances with battery consortiums such as the European Battery Alliance (EBA), the Batteries European Partnership Association (BEPA) and the European Technology and Innovation Platform (ETIP).