Industry 4.0 is the fourth industrial revolution called digitization, after mechanization, electrification and automation. Machines and their components are digitally networked with one another and with their environment. The aim of this networking is to simplify and optimize processes and thus to maximize the value creation chain. In the digital factory, also called the Smart Factory, there will be no more unplanned machine downtimes and resources will be optimally used.
Half of the population is online today. They communicate via the internet. But more and more devices and systems are being networked together. Experts from different areas believe that new markets will open up.
It is clear that Big Data, i.e. the huge quantity of data that is collected, is worth a great deal if it is systematically analyzed and incorporated into processes. This task presents a huge challenge for both industry and society.
The Solution: Focus!
"A Smart Factory is not simply created overnight. It is necessary to focus on certain areas," said Christian Josi, Project Manager at Fritz Studer AG. "For STUDER, the basic principle is that all further developments should lead to a customer benefit. We work closely together with our customers."
The basis of Industry 4.0 is the networking of machine, logistics, product and our customers' business systems (ERP, SAP). Everyone must speak the same language. This is achieved through the simple and secure software interface used worldwide, Open Platform Communication Unified Architecture (OPC UA). STUDER has integrated the OPC UA standard into its StuderWIN machine software. The machine can assume two roles here: OPC UA client and server. This enables STUDER machines to be integrated simply and securely into the environment of the digital factory.
Another focus is on unplanned machine downtimes. The UNITED GRINDING Group (UGG) - of which STUDER is part - tackles this topic methodically, as a group. The aim: The customer will receive a tool, which enables cost-optimized maintenance. In other words, the machine will only be stationary if this is planned and calculated. UGG adopts the predictive maintenance approach. In order to make this possible in future, the data of the individual assemblies and components are recorded and analyzed. Different measured variables are needed to form a clear picture of the individual assemblies and components. This requires continuous learning and is an ongoing process. "Once there is a clear vision, suitable strategies and measures can be precisely planned and the right tools developed," Josi said. Another project under development is `One Push Remote Solution." This means that if an assembly or component fails, despite predictive maintenance, the problem can be rectified at the press of a button and the customer can be offered optimal support.
With the use of new technologies and digitalization, one must never lose sight of the customer. STUDER consciously focuses on the individual customer and the customer's requirements. The new technologies and digitalized products must ultimately have a positive effect on the value creation chain. But what is the role of people in the digital factory? "Doubtless the requirements will change and different competencies will become important. However, people will remain an essential part of the system in future," Josi said.
For more information contact:
UNITED GRINDING North America, Inc.
510 Earl Blvd.
Miamisburg, OH 45342
937-859-1975
info@grinding.com
www.grinding.com