SHANGHAI, Sept. 30, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- In recent decades and years, the main aims of "mechatronization" of subsystems and rolling bearings have been high levels of functional integration, high power density, downsizing and reducing the number of components and interfaces. With Industrie 4.0, the scope has widened: Communicative products and the digitalization of components which provide completely new additional functions are a new point of focus. Amongst other things, the aim is to have a real time view of production.
The performance and quality of production machines are fundamentally and definitively determined by the bearing supports. Data on the current condition as well as the future behavior of subsystems supported by bearings, such as spindles, guidance systems, rotary and swivel axes etc. are a fundamental basis for the required real time view. In its role as supplier and development partner for technical drive components, Schaeffler is pursuing a digitalization strategy across all product groups with the aim of providing data from the most diverse of processes via sensors, networking and analysis in order to be able to offer customers clear-cut added value. Schaeffler's activities in the field of machine tool digitalization provide the whole sector with the potential to convert opportunities and overcome challenges through close collaboration between manufacturer, supplier and user.
"Machine tools 4.0" innovation project
One tangible example of Schaeffler's digitalization strategy which can be seen at EMO 2015 is the "Machine tools 4.0" innovation project, a joint project with Deckel Maho Pfronten and other partners. The prototype based on the DMC 80 FD duoBLOCK® mill-turn universal machining center has additional sensors integrated into nearly all the bearing positions relevant to the machining process in order to measure vibration, forces, temperatures and pressures and obtain the best possible information on the condition of the machine. In order to make all data accessible, the machine is provided with an internal network to which all additional sensors, actuators and evaluation units are connected.
Linear guidance systems 4.0 development project
At EMO 2015, Schaeffler is presenting an INA linear recirculating roller bearing and guideway assembly with bearing condition monitoring by means of piezoelectric accelerometers and automated lubrication on demand via an innovative lubricator.
A further innovation on display from INA Linear Technology is the completely hydrostatic compact guidance system with integral piezoresistive pressure sensors. The sensors in the pressure pockets of the HLE-A-XL hydrostatic guidance system measure the pressure changes which occur due to changes in the operating forces. The pressure pocket data are used to calculate the three-dimensional machining forces at the working point (3D logging) through calculation algorithms working in the background. The 4.0 functionality allows workpiece machining to be actively controlled using additional integral pressure sensors, increasing machining quality and efficiency
Rolling bearing app ready for release
At EMO 2015, Schaeffler is launching the world's first rolling bearings with a Data Matrix Code. This allows the bearing's authenticity to be checked using the PrecisionDesk app. Further functionality, such as retrieving information on performance capability and mounting, are also in development.
Online-press kit and further information:
Please find more information regarding Schaeffler's trade show presence at EMO 2015 at www.schaeffler.de/en/emo
You can download the online press kit via this link: http://www.schaeffler.de/content.schaeffler.de/en/press/presskits/press_kit_emo/emo.jsp
The Schaeffler Group is a leading global integrated automotive and industrial supplier. The company stands for the highest quality, outstanding technology and strong innovative ability. The Schaeffler Group makes a decisive contribution to "mobility for tomorrow" with high-precision components and systems in engine, transmission and chassis applications as well as rolling and plain bearing solutions for a large number of industrial applications. The company generated sales of approximately 12.1 billion Euros in 2014. With around 84,000 employees worldwide, Schaeffler is one of Europe's largest technology companies in family ownership. It has a worldwide network of manufacturing locations, research and development facilities and sales companies at approximately 170 locations in 50 countries.
The Industrial division supplies components and systems for around 60 industrial sectors via its worldwide organization and its application support service. The range comprises products from miniature bearings only a few millimeters wide to large-size bearings with an outside diameter of several meters.
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