Material Requirements Planning
Material Requirements Planning (MRP) is a systematic approach used in manufacturing to ensure that materials and components are available for production while maintaining the lowest possible inventory levels. MRP utilizes data from production schedules, inventory records, and the bill of materials to calculate the exact materials needed and when they should be ordered. In the context of Industry 4.0, MRP systems are enhanced by IIoT and AI technologies, allowing for real-time data analysis and more accurate forecasting. For example, an MRP system might automatically adjust orders based on sensor data indicating a change in production speed. This approach minimizes waste, reduces costs, and improves efficiency. However, challenges include the complexity of integrating MRP systems with existing IT infrastructure and ensuring data accuracy. Related concepts include Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) and Just-In-Time (JIT) production, which further optimize manufacturing processes.