Automation Track Challenges
Testing the Quality of Solar Panels
Automating the Maamoul Production Process
Predicting Maintenance Needs for Green Hydrogen Machines
Challenge Overview
Green hydrogen is a clean energy source and a key driver in the transition toward sustainability and achieving net-zero emissions. ACWA Power relies on alkaline electrolyzers to separate hydrogen from water, but these devices require regular maintenance due to frequent failures caused by operational changes and continuous on-off cycles, which affect their efficiency and increase costs. How can we predict these failures and improve performance more efficiently and effectively?
Challenge Description
Develop an automated digital tool that predicts failure risks and maintenance needs in alkaline electrolyzers used for green hydrogen production, contributing to improved planning, reduced downtime, and safer, more efficient operation.
Criteria
Prediction of potential equipment issues
Risk presentation and reporting
Assessment of operational and maintenance readiness
Testing the Quality of Solar Panels
Challenge Overview
Desert Technologies manufactures solar photovoltaic (PV) modules using advanced, semi-automated production lines. As part of its quality control process, Electroluminescence (EL) testing is performed both before and after lamination to identify microcracks and potential defects in solar cells. Currently, defect detection relies on manual visual inspection, which leads to inconsistent results and slows down the process.
Challenge Description
How can we automate the inspection process to detect microcracks and cell defects in a more accurate, consistent, and efficient manner, without relying on manual inspection?
Criteria
Accuracy in defect detection
Simplicity of user interface
Ease of integration into production lines
Automating the Maamoul Production Process
Challenge Overview
The production of maamoul is a traditional and distinctive product in the region, yet it still relies on manual processes in several stages. This leads to inconsistent quality, higher costs, and longer production times. How can we innovate solutions that contribute to automating maamoul manufacturing processes and improving productivity while maintaining product quality?
Challenge Description
Design an innovative solution that automates stages of maamoul production, such as mixing, shaping, and drying, to enhance efficiency, reduce waste, and maintain product quality.
Criteria
Applicability across production stages
Increased efficiency and productivity
Flexibility in adjusting product size
Improved process monitoring