New app makes production more transparent

Easy installation, configuration, and operation of vacuum components with the new Schmalz app.

For greater transparency in production, Schmalz is making an app available to users for the first time. With it, vacuum components such as the vacuum and pressure switch VSi can be easily installed, parameterized, and operated via smartphone or tablet. This reduces procurement costs, shortens commissioning, and optimizes device service.

By controlling via app, display and input modules on the device are eliminated, reducing procurement costs by up to 40 percent. The commissioning of the components is "out of the box": for example, a vacuum switch can be simply scanned with the app, and then the user enters various values through the app. Elaborate setup using lengthy operating instructions is no longer necessary. Additionally, the app can transfer settings from already installed switches to other devices in seconds. This can save up to 75 percent of the time during commissioning.

The app also offers advantages in terms of service: it provides clear text messages explaining the cause of errors instead of error codes and offers troubleshooting instructions. Relevant information such as installation date or the location of spare parts storage can also be optionally stored and retrieved on the switch via the app. To minimize the risk of device failure, the app enables predictive wear monitoring: reminders for predictive maintenance and a list of possible wear parts can be stored. The user can intervene quickly if needed, reducing service times by up to 80 percent.

The Schmalz app, called "Schmalz ControlRoom," has been available for download in the Google Play Store since October 2017 — with read-only functionality as a free app. The app for device parameterization will also be available free of charge until the end of the year, then will become paid starting January 2018. So far, the app is available for the vacuum and pressure switch VSi. From fall 2018, it will also be usable for the Compact Ejector SXMPi, the electric vacuum generator ECBPi, and the Compact Terminal SCTMi. Schmalz offers the service application in several packages: as a single license for one mobile device, for groups of up to ten devices, and as an enterprise license for an unlimited number of devices within a company.