Page 50 - Demo

PRODUCTION TECHNOLOGY48 PRODUCTION TECHNOLOGY AAC WORLDWIDE %u2022 2.2026Wehrhahn GmbH, 27753 Delmenhorst, GermanyEvaluate - control - optimise: Real-time process image for a transparent factoryOnce a production plant has been successfully commissioned, the real operational challenge begins. Processes and recipes must be continuously optimised, new products developed, and product quality consistently monitored. At the same time, plant operators must ensure stable operation and coordinate production planning, staffing, shutdown schedules, and maintenance activities. To support customers with these complex tasks, Wehrhahn has developed advanced digital tools over many years. The goal has always been clear: to provide practical technological solutions that simplify plant management while improving efficiency, transparency, and process stability.%u00a0Traditionally, plant data acquisition systems followed a similar structure. Selected data points were transferred via a dedicated %u201cdata collection PLC%u201d and an interface to a data logger, which stored the information in a database. Although this approach was functional, it required extensive knowledge of the PLC programme and was often difficult to adapt or expand. Any modification required changes to the interface structure, resulting in limited flexibility. In addition, increasing data traffic often pushed network infrastructures to their limits.Other market solutions have attempted to retrofit similar functionality through add-on modules. However, these approaches frequently required additional sensor technology, significantly increasing costs and system complexity.Today, however, this situation has changed fundamentally. Modern network architectures, fibre-optic communication, and significantly faster control systems allow the capture and processing of large volumes of data in real time. Instead of selecting individual data points, it is now possible to continuously collect and efficiently store all machine and process data in a central database.This technological shift forms the foundation of the Wehrhahn Master Control System (MCS).The Wehrhahn MCS combines decades of process expertise with detailed knowledge of plant control structures. It transforms raw production data into actionable insights, enabling operators to make well-informed decisions.Access to the system is provided via a modern web interface, offering fast and intuitive access to relevant information. Standardised dashboards present key plant data in a clear and structured way. Thanks to their modular design, these dashboards can be customised to match the needs of individual users.For example:%u2022 Production managers receive real-time production figures, raw material status information, and data on section performance.%u2022 Plant managers gain access to strategic indicators such as KPIs and overall equipment effectiveness (OEE).In addition to dashboard views, the MCS provides direct access to highly specialised evaluations that can be traced down to the field level, including individual sensors and machine parameters. With only a few clicks, users can move from a complete plant overview to the detailed analysis of a single machine component.M.Sc. Konstantin Dietz, Wehrhahn GmbH, Deutschland