Connection of a Cloud-Based Manufacturing Execution System (MES) to the S/4HANA Private Cloud
At the start of the project, Mynaric was using an S/4HANA private cloud system that primarily utilized SAP standard processes. The goal was to connect this SAP system to the Manufacturing Execution System (MES) Manufacturo. As part of the project requirements, many processes needed to be outsourced from the SAP system and transferred to the MES. At this point, CONSILIO was recommended by a customer and brought into the project.
Challenge
One significant challenge in connecting the MES to the S/4HANA private cloud system was the need to map several complex processes in the MES, particularly due to the intricate production structure of industrialized laser communication terminal manufacturing. Standard MES systems did not cover enough processes to meet Mynaric’s requirements. For instance, handling inventory management in the MES required the carve-out of the EWM module from the SAP system.
Additionally, MES updates were ongoing throughout the project. Features such as time confirmation for individual operations in the production order were available in the SAP system at the project's start but not yet in the MES. These features needed to be developed during the Cloud Platform Integration (CPI) connection to facilitate the transfer of information between the systems
Project Goal
The project aimed to connect the MES with CPI to the existing SAP S/4HANA system. This connection was preceded by a design phase in which Mynaric outlined, discussed, and approved processes for the individual modules. Examples include the PP module for production planning, the subcontracting process, the delivery process, and the purchase order process. Based on these discussions, the connection of the processes from the SAP system to the MES was planned, including defining the necessary business objects.
We provided Mynaric with end-to-end support in connecting the existing MES to the S/4HANA system and actively assisted in transferring SAP processes to the MES.
Benefits of the Solution
State-of-the-Art SAP Standard with CPI:
The latest technology was implemented for connecting to the S/4HANA system using SAP CPI. Both S/4HANA and CPI are cloud-hosted, providing Mynaric with an end-to-end standard via the cloud.
Simplified Monitoring for Non-Interface Experts:
The SAP standard includes monitoring functionalities, which are enhanced with additional monitoring screens through CPI.
Avoidance of SAP PI/PO Migration:
Not using the SAP PI/PO solution, whose support will end in 2027, avoids a future migration project. The necessary features of SAP PI/PO are being incrementally implemented in CPI.
Graphical Interface for High Usability:
Graphical interfaces enable users to easily understand and display complex scenarios.
Cross-System Data Access:
Data is continuously transferred between the SAP and MES systems.
High Flexibility with Customized MES:
The customized MES provides Mynaric with a high degree of flexibility regarding the mapped processes. The system meets all requirements that would have required more development effort if implemented in the SAP system.
