The vision of this industrial research project is to bring from TRL3 to TRL5, SCORE: Supply Chain Optimisation for demand Response Efficiency. This system will enable Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers in manufacturing sectors to better manage their inventory through digital technologies and minimise the impact of sudden changes in demand and maintenance activities. The key objectives in fulfilling this vision are to: 1. Ensure smooth flow of materials between different nodes of supply chain 2. Minimise waiting time to start production and avoid delays through tracking of materials at different stages 3. Automate raw material demand according to production cell cycles for production lines to minimise 'on-floor' unused material 4. Integrate continuous a learning-enabled model for prediction of demands and machinery breakdowns The main areas of focus in this project are on implementing the sensors for the track and trace of inventory and developing machine learning algorithms for the creation of demand forecast model and inventory change models. Although enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems take into consideration some factors, e.g. the scheduled maintenance activities, they are mostly generic tools, lacking specialist forecasting systems, and relying extensively on statistical methods for inventory control predictions. The innovation in SCORE lies in the application of machine learning to optimise supply chain management models which traditionally use statistical analysis methods, the integration of different models into one and the communication of the forecasts with the entire supply chain, leading to more precise control over the inventory, greater traceability of assets, and near elimination of delays in supply or overstocking of parts. Our initial target market is the supply chain management (SCM) software market, with Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers the target users. This project represents a clear technological innovation for UK SCM, and major growth opportunity for the SME supply chain consortium. To successfully achieve this, the project consortium features the relevant expertise including track and trace system development, machine learning algorithm development, and inventory control expertise.

The ASTIR (Advanced Storage Technology Into Reality) consortium will develop a new battery concept that will enhance the attributes of future Jaguar Land Rover electrified vehicles from 2024\. The battery system will be optimised for future platform architectures and will be critical to both Jaguar Land Rover and the associated UK supply chain. The ASTIR project will focus on the non-cell hardware and control system leading to a battery system which delivers future electrified vehicles with improved cost, range, efficiency and charging attributes. The development of a novel battery module construction and manufacturing process will be central to the project. In addition, the team will also deliver enhanced modelling techniques which will accelerate future battery engineering. To deliver this exciting project a consortium of UK based, world-class experts has been assembled: AE Oscroft and Sons Ltd -- This SME brings expertise in battery components and heat treatment techniques and will be responsible for developing a new bus bar design aligned with an advanced welding process. Advanced Insulation Systems Ltd - An expert in materials and process technologies gained from the oil and gas industry, who will apply their knowledge to safety and thermal propagation mitigation in battery systems. AVL UK -- A major provider of global engineering services with extensive experience in battery engineering and vehicle integration. They will lead the realisation of the proof of concept system and vibration modelling of the battery design. Siemens PLC will use their extensive modelling portfolio to explore the battery technical challenges and develop validated models which will accelerate future battery development. The Warwick Manufacturing Group will apply their world-renowned expertise in battery technology to develop and validate advanced models as well as testing of the integrated battery solution. Jaguar Land Rover will provide overall project coordination including battery application engineering and lead integration of the findings into the Jaguar Land Rover vehicle portfolio. Successful execution of the project will enable UK production sourcing, and sustain as well as generate UK jobs growth during the critical transition period from conventional internal combustion engines (ICE) to electrified powertrains. The realisation of the ASTIR battery technology will cement Jaguar Land Rover's position as a leading provider of world-class electric vehicles, building on the global success of the Jaguar I-PACE, the world's first premium all-electric performance SUV.