About the ENCIRCLE Project
About the ENCIRCLE Project
The ENCIRCLE project is an ambitious initiative focused on revolutionizing the manufacturing sector by driving a transition from traditional, linear production methods to sustainable, circular models. At the heart of this project is a comprehensive framework that leverages cutting-edge technologies like Digital Twins, Soft Sensors, and a Digital Product Passport, all embedded within a simulated virtual production line. This virtual environment is not only a testing ground but also a platform for advancing artificial intelligence and training the workforce through gamified experiences. With a human-centered design approach, ENCIRCLE integrates Human-in-the-Loop methodologies, where humans and AI collaborate symbiotically to optimize manufacturing processes for minimal environmental impact. By incorporating IoT and blockchain, the project also seeks to enhance traceability and transparency, ensuring products retain value and are effectively tracked through their lifecycle. Ultimately, ENCIRCLE will serve as a comprehensive digital marketplace supporting circular business cases, where companies and consumers are empowered to make sustainable choices that extend product lifespans and reduce waste.
The Vision of the ENCIRCLE Project
ENCIRCLE envisions a future where manufacturing operates in harmony with the environment, guided by circularity principles that prioritize resource efficiency and sustainability. Through its innovative virtual production line, ENCIRCLE aims to redefine manufacturing by providing tools and insights for achieving sustainable production configurations without compromising product quality. This vision is further supported by a digital ecosystem that connects producers and consumers, fostering a mindset shift towards circularity. ENCIRCLE’s end goal is to create a culture of sustainable consumption and responsible production, encouraging businesses to adopt circular CRM systems and empowering consumers with digital tools for sustainable choices. By exploring legal and ethical dimensions, the project is committed to creating a model for the industry that aligns with the environmental needs of the planet, ultimately contributing to the global effort of mitigating climate change and fostering a sustainable economy.
ENCIRCLE Project Work Package Structure
WP1 Project Management
T1.1 Project administration, coordination & reporting
T1.2 Scientific coordination, technical and risk management
T1.3 Quality management
T1.4 Ethical, legal, and societal impact monitoring and assessment
WP2 The ENCIRCLE Ecosystem Design
T2.1 User stories & use cases scenarios definition
T2.2 Business ecosystem design for circularity
T2.3 Analysis of existing standards and interoperability requirements
T2.4 ENCIRCLE ecosystem specifications and architecture
T2.5 Human Centered AI methodological framework for reliable, safe, and trustworthy circular digital technologies
WP3 Holistic Environmental Impact Assessment using AI and Virtualization
T3.1 IIoT network of sensors and actuators enabling Eco-Friendly Manufacturing and Traceability
T3.2 Soft Sensors for Real-Time Estimation and Forecasting of Environmental Impact in Manufacturing
T3.3 On the fly creation of Digital Twins with Neural-Implicit Techniques
T3.4 Green Control Loops for Eco-Friendly Production Optimization with Human-in-the-Loop Decision Support
WP4 Enabling Decarbonized Production via Simulation, Optimal Planning and Upskilling
T4.1 Lifecycle and End of Life Analysis and Strategic Readiness Assessment
T4.2 Simulation and modelling engine for production virtualization
T4.3 Optimal Planning using Reinforcement Learning from human feedback
T4.4 Decision Support for optimal planning and Ecodesign
T4.5 Gamification for workforce upskilling
WP5 Trustworthy, Human-Centered Applications for Circularity
T5.1 Blockchain-enabled data pooling and product track-n-trace
T5.2 C2 Relational Management and Recommender System
T5.3 Environmental Impact Analytic Engine
T5.4 DPP wallet for circularity
WP6 Integration and Demonstration
T6.1 Marketplace for circular economy business opportunities
T6.2 Incremental MVP integration and system validation in the CE Ecosystem
T6.3 Workforce training for upskilling and reskilling
T6.4 ENCIRCLE pilots, user testing and evaluation
WP7 Dissemination and exploitation
T7.1 Dissemination and communication activities
T7.2 Building synergies and clustering activities
T7.3 Market analysis and business cases
T7.4 Exploitation strategy and IPR management