Connected machines built in series

Machines built in series need repeatable commissioning, consistent software versions and traceable test records. Their data must support quality, analysis and service. The next machine should start from a known software and test configuration, not from reconstructed settings.

I bring these requirements together at the concept stage or integrate them into an existing architecture.

• Sensor interfaces, embedded hardware and firmware
• Machine controls and HMI based on operator requirements
• Machine and business networks, VLANs and firewall design
• End-to-end data flows and interfaces to existing systems
• Rollout, commissioning, test benches and test records

Cloud, AI and machine vision are tools used where they benefit the specific system.

For a robotic end-of-arm tool in automotive body-in-white production, my contribution includes the complete data flow, the initial embedded-hardware design handed over for optimisation, HMI and firmware development, network architecture including firewalls and VLANs, and commissioning and test-bench rollout with test records. I also contribute to mechanical planning and sensor-interface decisions.

A sensor change can affect electronics, firmware, the operator interface, analysis and testing. I coordinate those interfaces with the specialists involved. Development is ongoing; customer identity, product details and internal performance figures remain confidential.

• Understand the machine, the objective and the gap between development and operation.
• Review the concept, existing interfaces and open decisions with the responsible specialists.
• Agree a bounded work package or longer-term technical support. Management and budget remain with your internal project lead.