Innovating the Future: My Internship at Bosch Indonesia | by Alessandro Arraniry Pritajaya | Oct, 2023

In this article, I will share my enriching internship experience as a Sales Controlling and Commercial intern at Bosch Indonesia. Bosch, a technology and services company. Bosch Indonesia operates through four divisions: Automotive Aftermarket, Building Technology, Power Tools, and Original Equipment and when I was on the internship program I was working at the Original Equipment division, which focuses on selling automotive component parts, with a specific focus on the B2B manufacturing market segmentation. During my time at Bosch, I had the privilege of engaging in several discussions, including the Automated Driving Project. Additionally, I had insightful discussions with Anil Narula, the Director of Bosch Home Appliances Indonesia, regarding “Robot as a Service” for cleaning. I also explored the impact of economic recessions on home appliances production. To begin, let’s delve into the history of Bosch and Bosch Indonesia.

Bosch: A Legacy of Innovation

Robert Bosch GmbH, known as Bosch, was founded in 1886 by Robert Bosch in Stuttgart, Germany. The company had a great impact for the beginning of a remarkable journey in innovation, engineering, and technology that would leave an improvement mark on the world. Bosch’s core values of quality, innovation, and social responsibility have been at the heart of its operations for over a century.

The history of Bosch is closely with the development of the automobile industry. In 1927, Bosch introduced the revolutionary fuel injection pump, which significantly improved fuel efficiency and power output in vehicles. This invention laid the foundation for modern automotive engineering and established Bosch as a pioneer in the field. Over the years, Bosch expanded its operations beyond automotive technology into various sectors, including consumer goods, industrial technology, and energy and building technology. Today, Bosch is a global leader in multiple industries, providing innovative solutions for mobility, energy, industry, and consumer goods.

Bosch’s commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility is evident in its continuous efforts to develop energy-efficient technologies and reduce carbon emissions. The company’s dedication to corporate social responsibility aligns with its vision of improving the quality of life through innovative products and services.

Bosch in Indonesia: Shaping the Nation’s Technological Landscape

Bosch, a global household name in technology and engineering, has had a lot of positive impact and eventful history in Indonesia. The company’s presence in this Southeast Asian archipelago country began over eight decades ago, and it has since played a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s technological landscape.

Early Beginnings: The 1930s-1960s

The story of Bosch in Indonesia traces back to the 1930s when the company’s products first found their way to the Indonesian market. It initially started as a modest distribution operation for Bosch automotive parts and industrial products. However, the onset of World War II disrupted business activities, forcing Bosch to suspend operations temporarily.

After the war, Bosch returned to Indonesia and established a more significant presence. In 1955, Bosch opened its first branch office in Jakarta, marking the beginning of a more comprehensive engagement with the local market. Over the following decades, the company expanded its range of products and services in Indonesia, to the growing needs of the nation’s developing industries.

Pioneering Technological Advancements: The 1970s-1990s

The 1970s and 1980s saw Bosch making substantial investments in Indonesia. The company recognized the nation’s potential as an emerging market and contributed to the country’s industrialization. Bosch provided advanced solutions for the automotive and manufacturing sectors, which helped enhance the efficiency and productivity of Indonesian industries.

During this period, Bosch also introduced innovative home appliances to Indonesian households. These products quickly gained popularity, reflecting the company’s commitment to delivering quality and cutting-edge technology to consumers. Bosch’s range of home appliances became synonymous with reliability and innovation.

Local Manufacturing: The 2000s Onward

As the Indonesian economy continued to grow, Bosch made significant strides in expanding its operations in the country. The company established local manufacturing facilities to produce a range of products, including automotive components and power tools. This move not only contributed to the nation’s industrial base but also created employment opportunities for the local population.

Furthermore, Bosch’s commitment to sustainable practices and environmental responsibility was evident in its local operations. The company actively engaged in corporate social responsibility projects that supported local communities and aimed to improve living conditions. In addition to manufacturing, Bosch continued to innovate and introduce a wide array of products to cater to Indonesia’s market. Home appliances, automotive technologies, and industrial solutions of Bosch’s dedication to quality and performance.

Digital Transformation and the Future

In recent years, Bosch has embraced the era of digital transformation. The company has been at the forefront of Industry 4.0 initiatives, contributing to the development of smart factories and intelligent manufacturing processes. This shift toward digitalization has not only improved the efficiency of Indonesian industries but also positioned Bosch as a leader in technological innovation. Moreover, Bosch’s commitment to sustainability remains unwavering. The company has undertaken initiatives to reduce its environmental footprint and actively supports Indonesia’s efforts to address climate change and environmental challenges.

Today, Bosch in Indonesia stands as a symbol of quality, innovation, and technological advancement. The company’s presence in the country has evolved from a modest distribution operation to a vital contributor to Indonesia’s economic and technological growth. Bosch continues to shape the future of Indonesia, offering solutions for industries, households, and beyond.

As Bosch’s journey in Indonesia unfolds, it exemplifies the enduring commitment of a global corporation to a nation’s progress and prosperity. With a history marked by innovation, Bosch continues to be an integral part of Indonesia’s growth story, shaping the nation’s technological landscape for generations to come.

My Internship Experience

As an intern in Bosch Indonesia, I was placed in the Original Equipment division. This division primarily supplies to the automotive industry, focusing on the business-to-business (B2B) manufacturing sector. The division supplies vital automotive components, enabling the production of vehicles by leading automobile manufacturers.

One of the most captivating aspects of my internship was my discussion with the empolyee in the Automated Driving Project. The project is a groundbreaking endeavor that exemplifies Bosch’s commitment to innovation in the automotive industry. Below, I will provide a detailed overview of the project’s goals, and significance.

The Automated Driving Project: A Glimpse into the Future

Automated driving, often referred to as autonomous driving, is a rapidly evolving field of technology that aims to revolutionize the way we commute and transport goods. Bosch is at the forefront of this transformative industry with its pioneering Automated Driving Project.

Key Components of the Automated Driving Project:

Sensor Technology: Bosch’s Automated Driving Project heavily relies on advanced sensor technology. The project integrates a diverse array of sensors, including LiDAR, radar, and cameras, to enable vehicles to perceive and understand their surroundings accurately.

Machine Learning and AI: Artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms play a crucial role in the project. These technologies allow vehicles to process sensor data, make decisions, and navigate safely in complex and dynamic environments.

Connectivity: The vehicles in the project are equipped with state-of-the-art connectivity solutions, facilitating real-time communication with other vehicles and infrastructure. This connectivity enhances safety and enables cooperative driving.

Safety Systems: Ensuring the safety of automated driving is paramount. Bosch’s project incorporates advance d safety systems, including redundant braking and steering systems, to mitigate risks and provide fail-safe mechanisms.

Testing and Validation: Rigorous testing and validation procedures are a fundamental part of the project. Bosch conducts extensive real-world and simulated testing to ensure the reliability and safety of automated driving systems.

Goals and Significance of the Project:

The Bosch Automated Driving Project aims to achieve several critical objectives:

a. Improved Road Safety: Automated driving has the potential to significantly reduce accidents caused by human error, making roads safer for all.

b. Increased Mobility: By providing autonomous mobility solutions, the project aims to enhance accessibility and convenience for people, including those with limited mobility.

c. Reduced Environmental Impact: Autonomous vehicles can optimize driving patterns and reduce fuel consumption, thus contributing to a greener, more sustainable future.

d. Enhanced Traffic Flow: Automated driving systems can alleviate traffic congestion by optimizing traffic flow and reducing stop-and-go patterns.

e. Economic Benefits: The project can stimulate economic growth by creating new job opportunities in research, development, and the automotive sector.

Discussions with Anil Narula : Robot as a Service for Cleaning & Production Cost of Home Appliances

Another fascinating aspect of my internship was the opportunity to engage in discussions with Anil Narula, the Director of Bosch Home Appliances Indonesia. Our conversations began, when i was asked about the opinion of Robot as a Service for cleaning. RaaS is an innovative approach that involves the deployment of cleaning robots as a service, offering households and businesses the convenience of automated cleaning solutions.

Anil Narula shared insights on how cleaning robots are equipped with advanced sensors and algorithms, enabling them to navigate and clean spaces effectively. RaaS has the potential to transform the cleaning industry, offering benefits such as time savings, improved cleanliness, and reduced labor costs.

Impact of Economic Recessions on Home Appliances Production

During my internship, I also discussed with Anil about the impact of economic recessions on the production of home appliances. Economic recessions can significantly affect consumer spending patterns and, consequently, the demand for home appliances. During economic downturns, home appliances production may have increased in the production division, but the sales division also increased due to the needs of these items. Avoiding theft of household items by domestic helpers can be a primary consideration for consumers when purchasing home appliances.

Bosch, like other manufacturers in the home appliances industry, closely monitors economic trends and consumer behavior to adjust production and marketing strategies accordingly. They may focus on product innovation and cost-efficiency to maintain competitiveness during challenging economic times.

Conclusion

My internship at Bosch Indonesia was an eye-opening experience that allowed me to gain insights into various company’s operations. From the innovative Automated Driving Project to the Robot as a Service for cleaning and the challenges posed by economic recessions, I had the privilege of exploring diverse and dynamic fields.

Bosch’s rich history and commitment to innovation and sustainability make it a compelling organization to work with. The company’s presence in Indonesia has not only contributed to the nation’s industrial development but has also offered promising solutions to the challenges of the future.

As I conclude my internship and reflect on my journey, I am grateful for the opportunities and knowledge I have gained. Bosch Indonesia’s dedication to excellence and its impact on various industries continue to inspire me. My time at Bosch has not only enriched my academic and professional growth but has also deepened my appreciation for the transformative power of innovation.

References

Zampolli, S., Panci, G., & Bosch, J. J. (2019). RaaS: Robot as a Service in Industry 4.0 — Applied Model and Economic Evaluation. Sensors, 19(5), 1089.

Bresch, E., Hartmann, M., Pflügler, C., Strack, M., & Bosch, T. (2015). The Bosch automated driving parking lot. In Proceedings of the IEEE Intelligent Vehicles Symposium (IV) (pp. 1230–1235).

Chen, C., & Bosch, O. J. H. (2018). Centralized pricing strategy in a distribution channel under economic and social responsibility objectives. European Journal of Operational Research, 271(3), 1043–1059.

Bosch. (2021). Bosch History. https://www.bosch.com/explore-and-experience/about-us/company-history/

Bosch. (2021). Bosch in Indonesia. https://www.bosch.com/explore-and-experience/about-us/bosch-indonesia/

Bosch, T., & Bosch, J. (2016). Visual SLAM: Why bundle adjust? In Intelligent Robots and Systems (IROS), 2016 IEEE/RSJ International Conference (pp. 1458–1465). IEEE.