🏗️Epicmap

A Tuscany Region funded Project

Artificial Intelligence for the Optimization of Industrial Production of High-Performance Engine Components (EPICMAP)

Tuscany features a manufacturing production model predominantly based on SMEs operating in traditional sectors and organized into industrial districts, located in specific areas with strong specialization. Among the region’s areas of excellence is the industry of vehicles, engines, and related technologies.

Some companies, although part of globally excellent supply chains, rely on production processes that are often analog, poorly digitalized, and difficult to optimize from an energy efficiency perspective. The EU New Green Deal includes among its strategic objectives: i) energy-efficient production in the transformation processes of necessary materials; ii) the search for solutions that minimize the CO₂ footprint; and iii) digitalization of industrial processes aimed at improving resilience and the quality of production processes and their final products.

To support Tuscan companies in achieving these goals, the EPICMAP project—led by two Tuscan companies (Asso Werke and Zerynth) and the University of Pisa—aims to study the energy efficiency of production processes in the context of high-performance engine component manufacturing. The project will apply the latest machine learning methodologies based on artificial neural networks. The resulting predictive models will implement precise adjustments to the production process aimed at reducing waste and, consequently, lowering energy consumption and the CO₂ footprint per unit of finished product.

The project partners bring complementary characteristics and skills that facilitate the achievement of the project objectives. Asso Werke is a Tuscan excellence in the development of pistons, cylinders, liners, rings, and pins, with unique patented proprietary technologies. Zerynth is a leading startup in the digitalization of processes within Industry 4.0. Finally, the University of Pisa boasts over a decade of experience in applying advanced Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning methodologies to the Internet of Things (IoT) and industrial processes. Moreover, Asso Werke is highly interested in hiring specialized personnel at the end of the two-year period to continue green and digital transition activities.