Capturing, processing and interpreting production, process and quality data in real time is part and parcel of digitized production. In an attempt to tackle these challenges, internationally renowned software manufacturer Pickert & Partner GmbH works closely with its customer base to develop and maintain comprehensive, end-to-end standard software for manufacturing execution systems (MES), computer-aided quality (CAQ) and traceability. To create an even more transparent solution for future and prospective customers who are trying to pick out the right product for their needs, the company has now developed a system it can use during presentations to demonstrate its CAQ and MES solutions under relevant conditions. Pickert & Partner GmbH has dubbed this system "possibly the smallest machine in the world".

The underlying idea is as simple as it is ingenious. With the help of a Raspberry Pi, the system simulates an entire production machine that outputs batch sizes, incidents and process parameters using OPC UA - just like genuine machines in modern production systems. As a result, staff visiting existing and potential customers can quite clearly illustrate all the functions and the benefits of an end-to-end integrated system. The failure mode and effects analysis (FMEA) enables users to draw up inspection plans and initial samples, prepare production orders at the machine and allows the machine to produce batch sizes and/or malfunction messages. All this data flows into the shop floor view of the RQM's machine data management or, using additional process data from the machine, into the industrial cockpit's clear web dashboard known as RQM.Charm. As if that wasn't enough, all this takes place inside a box small enough to fit in your pocket. If you’re keen to discover Pickert & Partner GmbH's vision of error-free production and learn how your company can benefit, you can get in touch with the sales team today!

Pickert & Partner GmbH (76327 Pfinztal, Germany), Hall 7, Stand A17 (2018)