In the operations segment, BITZER has been involved since 2016 in the research project ‘MyCPS: Migration support for implementing human-centered cyber-physical systems’, which is supported by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF). BITZER is one of the project’s seven application partners.

CPS stands for cyber-physical systems. Expressed in simple terms, this means: software and mechanical components communicate with each other online – and this link brings about benefits and simplification for people, as in the application case at the BITZER production facility in Rottenburg-Ergenzingen:

The application case
BITZER manufactures screw compressors in one-piece flow at its Rottenburg-Ergenzingen site. Cast housings are processed with the utmost precision, occasionally incorporating customer-specific adjustments. Within this process, a great deal of information and key figures are already available in analogue form. However, due to preparation, upkeep and distribution efforts, these are not always used in a way that contributes to profit to the degree intended, or they’re simply not available in time for a prompt response. In the BITZER application case, information about the machines is recorded manually and entered into the database at the end of the shift. A central overview on the status of all machines does not exist.

The idea
Using intelligent tools, BITZER would like to make all essential information (such as overall system effectiveness, rejects and target/actual quantities) accessible in digital form and thus from any location, with the aim of reducing key organisational effort in production: walking distances, double filing, manually updating shift boards, printouts, data acquisition and more. Relieved of those types of secondary tasks, the production manager can focus on their core responsibilities. A modified flow of data should also minimise response times to problems and support identification of error sources.

The aims
Current machine status should be transparent and accessible from anywhere, whilst information should be recorded digitally rather than on paper. Those responsible should be enabled to respond more quickly and time delays avoided.

The requirements
In order to fulfil these aims, BITZER needs to obtain and integrate mobile devices, with a reliable Wi-Fi connection available at all times in the production halls. It’s essential to make technical support available to respond to malfunctions. Employees also need to undergo training on how to use the new solutions.

The approach
Through the MyCPS project, BITZER is having software developed which displays an up-to-date, comprehensive overview of individual machine statuses along with employee assignment – both centrally in the department and in mobile form on a tablet. This should enable a prompt response to deviations and irregularities, which is expected to increase effectiveness and quality. The availability of the latest data on machine status also provides the master craftsperson and production manager with prompt access to an overview of the current situation. With the resulting ability to recognise recurring situations, measures can be introduced to make improvements.

The closing event for the research project will be held at the BITZER SCHAUFLER Academy on 29 November. Open to the general public, the event will feature representatives from the project, and from business, science and politics – registration is required. The results of the project will be presented at this closing event along with the practical application of the results in the seven application cases, including the BITZER project.