How does digitalization work for SMEs?

Create a database

It’s especially easy for SMEs to enter the digital world when tool management is first digitized. This creates structured data as a basis for further steps toward digitalization. All tool information is stored and documented in a centralized database—enabling a real-time overview of all tools, or rather their digital twins—from project or order planning in the CAM system to the presetting device or machine. The resulting tool monitoring allows the company to have a real-time overview of the entire tool lifecycle and achieve significant productivity gains in a short time with a reasonable effort. For example, the company can see how long the tools have been used and can assess whether they need to be resharpened or replaced. This facilitates tool requirement planning, reduces downtime and time spent searching for tools, and also allows for optimized stock levels.

Use real-world solutions

But what does a suitable software solution for SMEs look like? “Small and medium-sized businesses should use low-cost tool management solutions with a good overview, as they can reap the benefits more quickly,” says Andreas Kastner, Head of Digital Products at Hoffmann Group. “SMEs don’t need the same range of functionality as top-tier companies and don’t have the capacity to relocate employees to implement a comprehensive software package.” That’s why we developed Connected Manufacturing, a standard software package that offers the core functionality and can be used intuitively without any training. The customer pays a monthly rental fee to use the software, meaning a large initial investment is not necessary. Even small companies with just a few employees and machines can reap the benefits of this in the short term.”

Ready to Use Quickly

When Connected Manufacturing is implemented, all tools are tagged with RFID chips. This can be done quickly and inexpensively. The chip numbers must then be assigned to their digital twin. The database is provided by the CAM system, meaning the customer doesn’t have to go through the tedious work of creating parts in the system themselves. No customization is necessary, and the solution is generally ready to use within a few days. The data moves along the production process along with the tools and is continuously updated. This allows you to seamlessly document which tools are currently where and their usage status. This makes using the planning tools easier. Errors in data transfer and tool assembly will also be avoided, as the solution sounds an alarm, for example, if the tolerance range on the presetting device is exceeded. This reduces waste.

“Tool management only “It brings a real benefit once employees use it consistently,” Kastner explains. “That’s why we invested a lot of time in developing the user interface when we developed Connected Manufacturing, so that operators could use the software intuitively without any training, and employees would quickly realize that it makes their lives easier.”

Expand as needed

Connected Manufacturing is currently available as a starter package without a machine connection and as a full version with a machine connection, featuring a live interface and data synchronization. This makes machine operation easier and allows central information on the status of machines and tools to be accessed. “Connecting to the machine(s) makes sense,” says Kastner. “But small businesses, in particular, often want to gain experience first, before investing more. That’s why we offer the starter package with the option to seamlessly upgrade to the full version later. This can then be extended to any number of machines. In addition, we are constantly developing and improving the software to make shop floor organization even more efficient,” reveals Kastner. “We are currently working on an interface to the ERP system, a tool configurator, and connection to other machine types and CAM systems. Combined with the rental model, this will create a versatile solution that offers flexibility to adapt to future business development.”

Currently, the Hoffmann Group solution provides interfaces to machine controllers from Heidenhain and Siemens, presetting devices from GARANT, Kelch, and Zoller (DNC interface), laser machine measuring systems (e.g., Blum Laser), and CAD/CAM software solutions from Tebis, Mastercam, HyperMill, and SolidCAM. It is also possible to connect a GARANT Tool24 automated cabinet to connected manufacturing. This enables precise control of tool retrievals and automatic triggering of refills.

Conclusion

For small and medium-sized businesses, digitalization begins with tool management, as this creates a structured database for future projects. Regarding software, practical modular solutions with a flexible payment model are particularly advantageous. These versatile solutions are quickly ready for use and ensure the necessary scope for future adaptation on the path to the “digital factory.”