MONBAT Supports Innovative ERP–MES Model to Transform Engineering Education in the Era of Industry 4.0

MONBAT is a leading European manufacturer of batteries and energy solutions with more than 65 years of experience. The company develops sustainable technologies and innovations aimed at the future of energy and mobility.

With the acceleration of digital transformation across global industries, preparing the workforce of the future has become more important than ever. In response to this challenge, MONBAT AD, with the participation of Kiril Ivanov – Program Manager Digital Solutions, in cooperation with the Department of Automation and Electronics at the Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Electronics and Automation of the University of Ruse, and Ehnaton Bulgaria, has supported the creation of an innovative educational model of an automated production line. This platform is designed for training, demonstration, and hands-on learning.

The innovative system replicates a real manufacturing process at a 1:10 scale, combining actual industrial components – Mitsubishi FX5U PLC, Cognex barcode scanners, visual sensors, and HMI/SCADA interfaces. Its purpose is to make the principles of integration between ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) and MES (Manufacturing Execution Systems) more accessible and applicable for students and trainees.

Through this educational platform, they can explore how automation and digitalization function in practice.

The system demonstrates:

* Automated tracking of production orders

* Product serialization and traceability

* Visual inspection and quality control

* Interaction between software and hardware through ERP/MES integration logic

In a safe and controlled environment, students are able to observe, configure, and experiment while acquiring practical skills in programming, process optimization, and systems integration. The open architecture of the model allows for testing new commands, editing existing program blocks, and simulating various production modes – providing flexibility for continuous learning.

Beyond its technical features, the project represents a sustainable model of collaboration between industry and academia. Through investment in educational innovation, MONBAT and Ehnaton demonstrate how business can actively contribute to preparing the next generation of engineers, ensuring that the workforce is ready for the realities of Industry 4.0.

Launched as a business-driven initiative, the project highlights how closer cooperation between industry and education can stimulate innovation, build practical skills, and strengthen the competitiveness of modern manufacturing.