Connected Machines

The requirement for travel restrictions and contact blocks in the corona crisis act like a fire accelerator: one driver of 5G in the machine tool sector will be new services that put users in direct contact with their helpdesk, such as the example of a manufacturer of grinding, eroding and laser machines.

Many companies in the machine tool industry look back on a long history and tradition. However, this does not prevent them from keeping pace with digitalisation. For example, Vollmer, the specialist for tool processing, was founded 111 years ago. Since last year, the machine manufacturers have been expanding their digital initiative “V@dison”.

Under this title, the machinery company bundles digital solutions for Industry 4.0 and IoT (Internet of Things). The aim is to efficiently network machines, use industry standards or use apps to optimize maintenance and servicing. For the first time, this spring Vollmer is presenting an app for smartphone and tablet, which allows customers to connect online with the Vollmer helpdesk. Thanks to the video function, live images of a machine can be recorded and exchanged globally with the Vollmer service team.

Demand for 5G functionalities

FUENF-G asked Dr. Stefan Brand, Managing Director of the Vollmer Group, how far the machine builder had to use 5G technology for this.

“With a view to the future and the further development of our digital products and services, 5G is an important building block. In general, 5G helps to achieve better and faster transmission rates, which can create exciting use cases. We will continue to adapt flexibly to the different requirements and bandwidths of our customers in the future,” explains Brand, but limits: “For visual support, Vollmer has selected a system that is designed for lower bandwidths. The reason is that our customers range from large corporations to smaller sharpening companies, so the technical equipment and the amount of bandwidth available varies accordingly. It is therefore important for us to provide a system that is attractive and user-friendly for every customer”

We will continue to adapt flexibly to the different requirements and bandwidths of our customers in the future!
Dr. Stefan Brand, Managing Director of the Vollmer Group

The currently offered functionalities do not necessarily have to use wireless technology: Users are networked with the technicians via encrypted video and audio channels, and with the help of a livestream the helpdesk and the on-site team share the same view of the inner workings of a grinding or eroding machine. In addition, the supplementary remote access allows direct access to the machine. With this service package, errors can already be quickly detected, service activities visually supported and application-related questions answered.

In real time, Visual Support can be used to establish a remote desktop connection or web-based full HD video and audio communication. With these apps, the Vollmer helpdesk opens up a further channel for direct customer communication and expands its existing options such as e-mail, telephone or personal on-site support.

“Visual Support already saves not only on travel costs, but also reduces waiting times and can be called up with just one click. We decided to use oculavis because the app is established in the market as a mature system that has won several awards. The solution is manufacturer-independent and can not only be installed on smartphones and tablets, but can also be used via smart glasses for hands-free working”, says Brand, promoting the digital options.