From device to cloud: Intelligent vacuum technology at SPS IPC Drives

Smarter vacuum generator ECBPi: Connection via IO-Link enables process monitoring from the machine to the cloud (Image: J. Schmalz GmbH)

For the first time, J. Schmalz GmbH is presenting itself at the SPS IPC Drives trade fair (Nuremberg, November 28 to 30). The company demonstrates how intelligent vacuum technology provides relevant process data, makes automation processes transparent, and thus leads to increased productivity.

Without intelligent devices connected in production, Industry 4.0 cannot be implemented. Schmalz shows in Hall 10.0, Stand 450, Smart Field Devices capable of communicating with all common production control systems, cloud platforms, or other control solutions.

The vacuum generator ECBPi operates without compressed air and is particularly suitable for handling tasks in mobile robotics. Via IO-Link, it provides users with data on energy consumption and system status and derives recommendations for preventive maintenance. All data is available from the vacuum generator in the fieldbus system or in the cloud. Like other Schmalz Smart Field Devices, the ECBPi vacuum generator also features an NFC data interface through which process and performance data can be accessed on mobile devices such as tablets or smartphones.

With the new app "ControlRoom," Schmalz now also offers users a "control station on the go": remotely, users can parameterize their devices or transfer values from one device to another.

Additionally, Schmalz presents the product SICON-Gateway, a solution for the aggregation and analysis of process data. The SICON-Gateway is platform-independent and connects IO-Link-capable actuators and sensors from various manufacturers with MES/ERP systems, providing valuable data from the production process up to the cloud.