Project “FlexChain” - KREATIZE
FlexChain is a platform ecosystem prototype, which establishes an integrated digital marketplace. It is a joint development of DXC Technology with the industry leaders Porsche, BASF and Kloeckner, as well as the Manufacturing as a Service startup Kreatize.
Kreatize provides a solution to source custom parts through a virtual supplier network. Goals of the Kreatize project include:
- End-to-end manufacturing as a service ecosystem
- Manufacturing outsourcing without distributing CAD files
- Secured and automated production in a value network
- Real-time information on materials, prices, production capacities
- Automation of the tendering process
The FlexChain approach reinvents the process of sourcing small batch production services by providing
- Secured analytics of the desired part
- Engineering simulation services with material recommendations
- Automated production and delivery
A customer uploads a CAD file to the local analytics engine. The proprietary software analyzes the CAD-file and creates a fingerprint of it. This process happens locally in a secured environment. After this, only the newly created metadata is shared with the suppliers. In the next step, the platform receives information about the needed materials along with price suggestions. Next, potential suppliers are requested. All of these suppliers are certified. With calculated price information, the customer can select the appropriate supplier and finally approves the quote. In the last step, the CAD-File will be sent to the chosen final supplier.
This allows sourcing of high quality technical custom parts as fast as possible with the best quality and the best price level.
This prototype demonstrates a new service platform connecting the customer directly to the suppliers and manufacturers:
This leads to many competitive advantages:
Our future vision
Our partners
Kreatize digitalizes several processes from the first contact with the customer, to the automatic quotation preparation as well as production planning.
BASF creates chemistry for a sustainable future. We combine economic success with environmental protection and social responsibility. Through science and innovation we enable our customers in nearly every industry to meet the current and future needs of society.
Klöckner & Co is one of the largest producer-independent distributors of steel and metal products and one of the leading steel service center companies worldwide. Based on its distribution and service network of around 170 locations in 12 countries, the group supplies around 130,000 customers. As a pioneer of digital transformation in the steel industry, Klöckner & Co’s goal is to fully digitalize the supply and service chain.
Porsche AG is a German automobile manufacturer specializing in high-performance sports cars, SUVs and sedans.