The automotive industry is undergoing a revolution, driven by the integration of cloud-connected mechatronics. This convergence of mechanical systems, electronic hardware, and advanced computing, enabled by cloud technologies, is significantly enhancing predictive maintenance capabilities. Cloud-connected mechatronics are revolutionizing vehicle maintenance by lowering costs, improving reliability, and leveraging real-time data collection, advanced analytics, and remote diagnostics.
With a career spanning more than 20 years and notable contributions to the electronics and automotive industries, Roopak Ingole has emerged as a leading figure in this field. Ingole began his professional journey at KPIT Cummins Infosystems Ltd in 2002 as an Apprentice Engineer, climbing the ranks to become the Director of Advanced Electronic Systems and Strategy at Cummins Inc. His extensive experience includes key roles at Motorola Solutions Inc. and a variety of groundbreaking projects that have had a profound impact on industry practices.
Ingole’s career is marked by a series of notable achievements. At KPIT, he advanced from an Apprentice Engineer to a Senior Software Engineer, working on embedded systems. His tenure at Motorola Solutions saw him develop electronic systems for powertrain solutions, including the design of an embedded solution for predictive analytics, which significantly reduced warranty costs. At Cummins Inc., Ingole’s leadership in developing electronic control software and guiding strategic investments has been instrumental in the company’s technological advancements. Notably, he spearheaded the implementation of Agile methodologies, which improved software development efficiency and reduced warranty costs by 15%.
Ingole’s influence at Cummins is particularly evident in the development of Embedded Field Performance Analytics. This project embedded analytics algorithms in Engine Control Units (ECUs), reducing data transmission costs by 80% and enabling predictive maintenance. His work in developing digital products to detect fuel contamination has further helped reduce warranty costs. Ingole’s projects extend beyond Cummins; his work on SCADA systems for Endress + Hauser and HMI systems for Schneider Electric are notable examples of his impact on global engineering practices.
Ingole’s projects have delivered measurable results, such as reducing truck downtime through predictive analytics and enhancing the life of clutch systems in manual transmission trucks. These innovations have been critical in reducing maintenance costs and improving vehicle reliability. However, the journey has not been without challenges. One significant hurdle has been the implementation of advanced security measures in embedded systems with limited resources. Ingole’s approach, involving custom software solutions and early adoption of encryption technologies, has set new standards in system security and reliability.
Ingole’s thought leadership is well-documented through his numerous publications. His research papers cover topics from AutoSAR compliant application software development to the use of blockchain technology for enhanced traceability in ECM calibration management. His insights into the integration of AI and ML in automotive systems have been particularly influential, as seen in his book “Intelligent Vehicles: Harnessing AI and ML for IoT Edge Computing.”
Ingole predicts that predictive maintenance and cloud-connected mechatronics will be crucial components of the automotive sector in the future. He highlights the potential of Software Defined Vehicles (SDVs) to enable remote diagnostics and on-demand software updates, further enhancing vehicle safety and efficiency. As the industry moves towards more sustainable practices, Ingole’s work in integrating advanced analytics and machine learning into automotive systems will continue to drive innovation and set benchmarks for others to follow.
Roopak Ingole’s contributions to cloud-connected mechatronics are not only transforming predictive maintenance practices but are also setting the stage for a future where vehicles are smarter, safer, and more efficient. His career serves as an inspiring testament to the transformative power of interdisciplinary expertise and innovative thinking in the automotive industry.