LG Opens Its First U.S. Factory to Produce Advanced EV Chargers
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By News Reporter
Company to Leverage Lighthouse Factory Expertise
to Develop Future-Oriented Business Models
SEOUL, July 18, 2024 — LG Electronics (LG) is advancing its smart factory solutions business by integrating artificial intelligence (AI) and digital transformation (DX) with its extensive 66-year history of manufacturing and production expertise.
The Ultimate Fusion of AI and Manufacturing Capabilities
Earlier this year, LG officially entered the smart factory solutions market. The Production engineering Research Institute (PRI), which has been enhancing production and manufacturing competitiveness for LG Group affiliates, is now extending its expertise to external clients. Services offered include production consulting, development of equipment and operation systems and training for technology personnel.
Despite being in its inaugural year, the business has already achieved significant milestones. PRI anticipates securing orders worth approximately KRW 200 billion from external clients for its smart factory solutions.
Major clients include secondary battery manufacturers, automotive parts manufacturers and logistics companies. LG plans to aggressively expand into industries with rapidly growing factory demand, such as semiconductors, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology and food and beverage. The goal is to develop the smart factory solutions business into a multi-trillion KRW enterprise by 2030, excluding revenue generated within the LG Group.
According to market research firm
link hidden, please login to view, the global smart factory market is projected to grow from USD 155.61 billion this year to USD 268.46 billion by 2030. 770TB of Manufacturing Data and Over 1,000 Patents
LG has accumulated vast amounts of manufacturing data and know-how through 66 years of factory design, construction and operation. In the past decade alone, the company has amassed 770 terabytes (TB) of manufacturing and production data, equivalent to storing approximately 197,000 high-definition movies (assuming each movie is 4GB). The company’s competitive edge also lies in its various core production technologies essential for smart factory configuration, with PRI filing over 1,000 patents related to smart factory solutions. LG aims to set its smart factory solutions apart by integrating its extensive manufacturing data and expertise with AI and DX, leveraging world-class production technologies. These smart factory solutions encompass production system design, monitoring and operation through Digital Twin technology; big data and generative AI-based management of quality, industrial safety and equipment; and the provision of various industrial robots.
Production Efficiency Directly Linked to Business Profitability
Smart factory solutions focus on minimizing even the briefest delays or minute errors between processes. Since efficiency in production is directly linked to the overall profitability of the business, enhancing it is crucial. For example, at LG’s refrigerator production line in Changwon, a refrigerator is produced every 13 seconds. A 10-minute delay in the production line would result in a production shortfall of 50 refrigerators. Assuming the price of one refrigerator is KRW 2 million, a 10-minute delay translates to a loss of KRW 100 million.
This impact is even more significant for products with faster production speeds.* Therefore, solutions that minimize delays across processes – from the seamless supply of multiple components to assembly, packaging and inspection – are essential.
Comprehensive Production Solutions Covering the Entire Journey
LG approaches the smart factory business not just as unit solutions for specific areas but as comprehensive solutions covering the entire journey for clients, from factory planning to design, construction and operation. Considering the client’s environment and industry characteristics, the company diagnoses existing factories and identifies areas for improvement, establishing a step-by-step roadmap from automation, informationization and intelligence perspectives to maximize investment effectiveness.
Digital Twin Solution for All Value Chain
The production system design and operation solutions leverage real-time simulations using Digital Twin technology. Before the factory is built, a virtual replica identical to the real factory is created, allowing clients to preview the production and logistics flow. This enables optimal efficiency in factory design.
During the operational phase, analyzing real-time data helps detect bottlenecks, defects and malfunctions in the production line in advance, thereby contributing to productivity improvement.
Autonomous Mobile Robots and Collaborative Robots
LG’s various industrial robot solutions for factory automation offer significant advantages. The Autonomous Mobile Robot (AMR) is equipped with cameras, radar and LiDAR sensors to recognize its surroundings and supply parts and materials. It navigates effectively, avoiding workers and obstacles through autonomous driving.
The Mobile Manipulator (MM), which combines a multi-joint robotic arm with an AMR, can automate a range of tasks seamlessly. It is capable of diverse actions such as assembly, defect inspection and transporting parts and materials. Additionally, it can replace the batteries of nearby AMRs when they run low.
Generative AI Solutions for Easy Anomaly Diagnosis
Solutions that assist in managing yield rates and ensuring the smooth operation of equipment are also highly beneficial. Sensors installed throughout the factory detect abnormal signals such as vibrations and noise caused by equipment aging or lack of lubrication. Big data is then used to determine the causes and recommend corrective actions.
Generative AI based on large language models allows for easy use through voice commands. For example, saying “abnormal vibration in equipment A at 2 p.m.” records the abnormal signal on the server. A command like “show recent abnormal vibrations and corrective actions” provides a list of defect types and previous corrective actions in order of likelihood.
Additionally, LG has developed a real-time detection system powered by Vision AI. This system learns the factory’s normal operating conditions and detects anomalies such as temperature fluctuations and defects. It also enhances factory safety management by identifying workers who are not properly wearing safety helmets or work vests.
Expediting the Development of a Future-Oriented Business Model by Harnessing Lighthouse Factory Expertise
LG’s intelligent autonomous factories in Changwon, South Korea, and Tennessee, USA, have been recognized as Lighthouse Factories by the World Economic Forum. Following the implementation of smart factory solutions, productivity at the Changwon plant increased by 17 percent, energy efficiency improved by 30 percent, and quality costs due to defects were reduced by 70 percent. Within the LG Group, production facilities at over 60 locations in 40 regions worldwide are applying solutions from PRI.
Leveraging this internally and externally validated smart factory expertise for business ventures holds significant meaning in terms of commercializing intangible assets. LG is driving a transformation of its business portfolio, which has traditionally focused on production of hardware, by integrating software and solutions into a future-oriented structure. This approach is expected to significantly contribute to the rapid growth of the company’s B2B sector, one of the three key growth drivers in LG’s 2030 Future Vision, especially as it targets numerous external corporate clients.
“We will offer optimal smart factory solutions at every stage – from planning and design to construction and operation – becoming the ideal partner that supports our clients throughout their entire production journey,” said Jeong Dae-hwa, head of LG PRI.
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* Unit for production speed is parts per million (PPM).
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By News Reporter
In the second episode of the ‘Customers at Heart’ series, we arrive in Egypt to see how the LG team here are introducing customized solutions that seek to improve the entire customer experience.
In Egypt, a country where 72 percent of its 111 million population are internet users according to
link hidden, please login to view, the popularity of online shopping is significant. Recognizing this, LG Egypt has taken an extra step to understand and analyze the needs of local customers, aiming to elevate their online shopping experience. Customer needs in Egypt, related to LG’s Online Brand Shop (OBS), both in the digital and physical space, were identified and categorized into three main areas: simplified access to information on store locations or LG appliances; an expanded range of payment options for OBS purchases; and increased flexibility in scheduling for delivery, installation and repairs.
The subsidiary took into account local customer data, even analyzing numerous customer call records and Voice of the Customer (VoC) data to better comprehend their preferences. For example, they observed that over 70 percent of Egyptians use WhatsApp, the messaging service. However, as the country is in the nascent stages of digital finance, many consumers still prefer cash payments. Thus, LG Egypt aimed to provide a wider range of payment options and unique benefits to attract people to the OBS.
Incorporating various data, the company enhanced its messaging features and created an All-in-One chatbot service through WhatsApp. With this service, customers can now choose their nearest store and, by clicking ‘Connect to Promoter’ and selecting text or video chat, they can connect with a knowledgeable sales representative.
LG Egypt also broadened its payment system by offering a method to pay for online purchases in cash upon delivery or in installments. They also improved purchasing benefits, such as member discounts and cleaning service coupons valid for a year from the purchase date.
The company also streamlined the delivery and installation process, allowing both to occur on the customer’s chosen date. This eliminates the need for customers to contact the call center separately for installation, saving them valuable time.
And to ensure customers receive the maximum benefit from their products, LG enhanced its after-sales service by scheduling service technician visits at times convenient for the customers and ensuring issues are resolved in a single visit – eliminating the need for lengthy waits for repairs. To cater to all customer needs, the Egyptian branch introduced ‘same day contact,’ a service that ensures technicians call customers on the same date of order request receipt; ‘Evening Care+’ for customers unavailable during regular office hours; and ‘On time – One Time’, which provides repair reception and processing during evening hours (17:30 – 20:30). The company also streamlined returns through its ‘Instant Exchange Process,’ handing customers the ability to effortlessly request returns or replacements by taking photos.
These innovative changes to the customer experience have been praised by customers nationwide. Its chatbot and location-based features have played a big part in boosting customer satisfaction, and the numbers back this up. Last year, OBS sales increased 169 percent compared to the previous year while registered OBS members went up 79 percent. After witnessing these results, LG Egypt committed itself to further diversifying its customer care program and increasing the All-in-One chatbot’s applicability to provide the ultimate differentiated experience to LG Brand Shop visitors. The company also plans to expand their dedicated service infrastructure to around 90 percent, ensuring that customers associate LG services with ‘On Time – One Time.’
Stay tuned for the next episode of ‘Customers at Heart,’ where we’ll be heading to another global LG office to learn how they’re thinking out of the box to enhance the customer experience.
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By News Reporter
LG Smart TVs Offer Latin American Users Free Anime Onegai FAST Channels for the
First Time With Spanish Subtitles and Dubbing
MEXICO CITY, May. 15, 2024 — LG Electronics (LG) is offering LG TV owners in Latin America free channels from popular Japanese anime platform Anime Onegai through the company’s exclusive, free streaming service, LG Channels. Anime Onegai is a streaming platform focused on anime founded by Japanese company REMOW, delivering Japanese anime straight from Japan. Available for the first time ever, Anime Onegai’s free ad-supported streaming television (FAST) channels are set to delight anime enthusiasts across Mexico, Argentina, Chile, Peru and Colombia with high-quality Spanish subtitles and dubbing. Whether long-time anime fans or exploring the genre for the first time, Anime Onegai on LG Channels promises to deliver a captivating viewing experience on large LG Smart TV screens.
Anime Onegai on LG Channels provides an extensive selection of anime content to the Latin American audience for free, a region boasting a significant anime fanbase with multiple countries among the top consumers of anime worldwide. Exclusively tailored to Spanish speakers, users can discover anime from a diverse range of genres, from thrilling sports, futuristic science fiction and action-packed adventures to rhythmic music and emotional dramas that tug at the heartstrings.
The Anime Onegai Sport channel invites LG smart TV users to enter the captivating universe of “Kuroko’s Basketball,” a must-see anime that fuses traditional sports with fantasy elements for original adrenaline-filled excitement. For those looking for fast-paced storytelling, the Anime Onegai Action channel provides high-octane content like “REBORN!” a gripping series filled with dynamic characters and masterfully crafted fight scenes.
Anime Onegai also offers content that inspires viewers with healing moments for relaxation and reflection. “Natsume Yujin-cho,” a slice-of-life anime featured on the Anime Onegai Drama channel, takes viewers on an emotional journey filled with heartfelt moments. The Anime Onegai Music channel understands the power music holds in transporting viewers to a new world or intensifying a dramatic scene. Here, music fans can immerse themselves in dramas such as “Full Moon,” which promises viewers an immersive experience with enchanting melodies.
In addition to a diverse selection of sports, action, drama and music channels, the Anime Onegai Sci-Fi channel on LG Channels presents compelling narratives with futuristic adventures and unique worldbuilding. LG Smart TV users can dive into the popular sci-fi anime “Broken Blade” and experience a world filled with epic battles, advanced technology and political intrigue.
Available on LG Smart TVs launched in 2016 and later, LG Channels can be effortlessly accessed directly from the home screen. LG Channels remains the preferred choice for LG Smart TV users worldwide, maintaining its position among the top five most used apps. With the addition of Anime Onegai, users can delve into an even broader selection of content for differentiated entertainment experiences.
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By News Reporter
The Kia EV3 Comes Equipped With LG’s webOS-Based ACP, Elevating the In-Car
Experience to New Heights
SEOUL, May 27, 2024 — LG Electronics (LG) is bringing its cutting-edge Automotive Content Platform (ACP) powered by webOS to the latest all-electric SUV from Kia Corporation (Kia). The integration of LG’s ACP into the recently unveiled Kia EV3 marks the first time the innovative solution has been applied to an electric vehicle. LG’s automotive entertainment platform initially debuted in South Korea last year with the introduction of the Hyundai Motor Group (Hyundai) Genesis GV80 and GV80 Coupe.
The webOS-based ACP brings the home entertainment experience into the vehicle cabin, aligning with LG’s future mobility vision to transform the car into a “living space on wheels.” This platform is an integral part of LG AlphaWare, LG’s suite of software solutions for software-defined vehicles (SDVs). It offers a wide range of content that has made LG Smart TVs with webOS so popular with consumers worldwide. Optimized for the in-car environment, LG’s ACP powered by webOS allows vehicle passengers to sit back and immerse themselves in their favorite content – just like they would at home.
LG’s ACP makes commutes and road trips more entertaining and enriching by providing EV3 owners and passengers access to apps from a wide range of premium content providers, including Netflix, YouTube, Baby Shark World for Kids, Stingray Karaoke, Play.Works and LG Channels. Thanks to LG and Kia’s close collaboration, the EV3 conveniently puts LG’s powerful platform at each passenger’s fingertips, enabling them to enjoy high-quality content on the car’s built-in screens. From streaming services and social media platforms to educational content for kids, users have access to a variety of content previously only available on mobile devices or TV.*
The webOS-based entertainment system from LG is continuously updated and enhanced, ensuring seamless integration with applications such as Baby Shark World for Kids. The mobile education app, beloved by children all over the world, presents over 9,000 songs and stories designed to educate and enthrall young learners and is readily available for download from the LG Content Store on the ACP.
LG’s advanced ACP now offers an enriched content streaming experience with the recent addition of the company’s exclusive, free streaming service, LG Channels. Tailored for in-vehicle use, LG Channels presents over 80 channels, real-time news updates and over 400 VOD content options, including movies, dramas and animated series for children – all ready to watch without any complex sign-ups required. LG aims to expand its in-vehicle LG Channels service (which was first launched on ACP for the Genesis GV80) with more outstanding content choices set to arrive in the near future.
“Featuring numerous user-centric innovations including LG’s ACP powered by webOS, the EV3 enables our customers to enjoy a compelling in-vehicle experience, complete with many of their favorite premium streaming services,” said Ryu Chang-sung, senior vice president and head of the Global Brand & CX division at Kia.
“Our in-vehicle content platform elevates the mobility experience, providing easy access to a diverse array of high-quality content,” said Eun Seok-hyun, president of LG Vehicle component Solutions Company. “We will continue to collaborate with leading global content providers to further enrich LG’s ACP, meeting the demands of both automakers and end users.”
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* The service requires a data subscription for automobiles.
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By David Daul
My magic remote and my Roku remote stopped working for turning off power so I performed a factory reset after troubleshooting to get the remote working. I am now stuck at the 1st screen of the Factory Reset which says "Press the OK Button(wheel) on your remote." Well... this really stinks because the remote doesn't work!!! I have tried a USB mouse, a new magic remote, other LG Remotes with no luck. I have also tried using the button on the bottom of the tv. And, I contacted support which was just an exercise in redoing everything I had already tried... No Luck!!
This is a Nano Cell 55NANO81ANA which is basically just a big brick now since I cannot even use any of the inputs. Does anyone have a trick for getting past this initial screen???
Thanks for the help.
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