Connect|M. Marbach on its way into the future. Digitization. Industry 4.0.

Marbach Werkzeugbau is currently working intensively on the topics of digitization and industry 4.0. The main focus here is on digital solutions for tools, processes and services. Within the scope of this project, Marbach has analyzed the future requirements of its customers. The results of this are the two components CONNECT|M and CONNECT|AR (Augmented Reality). CONNECT|M is a technology that intelligently connects the thermoforming tool, Marbach and the customer. CONNECT|AR is about virtual customer support via remote maintenance.

CONNECT|M
CONNECT|M contains different modules and extensions for the process data monitoring of important parameters such as pressure, temperatures, movements and impact forces. Measuring and monitoring is carried out by special sensors in the tool. By using the latest technologies and integrating cloud services, Marbach customers can analyze, optimize and monitor their thermoforming processes. 

Marbach sales manager Hubert Kittelmann: "Our system is modular and can be retrofitted. In this way the thermoforming process becomes transparent and can be controlled and optimized on the basis of the determined data. Start-up and tool changes are quick and easy because tool parallelism can be set up in no time. This avoids long machine downtimes and increases productivity. Wear and tear on the tools can be reduced by optimal adjustment and monitoring of the parallelism, so that the lifespan of the tool is increased and costs saved. The result for our customers is maximum performance." 

CONNECT|AR
In addition, Marbach is part of a digital customer support project. Kittelmann continues: "Together with machine manufacturers, the European Thermoforming Division and manufacturers of thermoformed end products, we want to engage with a new dimension of customer support with the aid of AR glasses. This is what we call CONNECT|AR. In this way, our customers receive maximum performance in the production of their plastic packaging."

Customer support via data glasses is a type of remote maintenance with additional benefits. The big advantage is that the customer can be supported worldwide at exactly the right time. A Marbach expert will be available for the customer at any time, without being directly on-site. This makes support quick and uncomplicated. Travel costs are saved and long waiting times for a service technician will be a thing of the past. Thus, a consultation or solution is available quick and easy.