Real-Time Monitoring of the CO2 Footprint of Production for SMEs

The core of the research work is the development and implementation of a real-time product carbon footprint with a focus on applicability for small and medium-sized enterprises. In addition to the life cycle analysis, a central element is the implementation of a machine carbon footprint for a 5-axis universal machining center that records and visualizes resource consumption in real time. With the help of a wide range of sensors, consumption such as energy, compressed air and cooling lubricants are dynamically measured as well as material consumption. The measurement data is then processed, stored and visualized with the help of open-source low-code platforms. This real-time data forms the basis for the precise determination of the production-specific CO2 footprint. The results of the Product Carbon Footprint show that the greatest savings potential lies in the choice of sustainable raw materials (a reduction of 38%) and the use of renewable energies (a reduction of 19%). The approach offers a high level of transparency and supports companies in optimizing their processes as well as meeting future regulatory requirements.