Mr. Wendler, why is it worthwhile for companies to visit SPS?

The pressure on costs and innovation poses enormous challenges for machine and plant manufacturers. Business models need to be realigned towards services and digital services so that they can tap into new growth areas and sources of revenue. However, small and medium-sized companies in particular are finding the digital transformation difficult because they lack the specialist staff, expertise and infrastructure. Small and medium-sized companies in particular therefore need a partner to support them in their digital transformation - and there is probably no better partner exchange than SPS (laughs).

How can you support SMEs as a partner?

At Lenze, we see ourselves as partners at eye level. We know the needs of SMEs and have the experience as well as the application and domain knowledge to support them throughout the entire digitalization process. At SPS, we will be showing, among other things, how we use smart data and the digital twin to help customers reduce costs and increase efficiency throughout the entire machine life cycle. We will also be presenting the enhanced Asset Performance Platform, which enables machine builders to drive the digital service business forward. And, of course, we are also giving 'Nupano' a stage. This open automation platform is based on proven, open IT architectures and provides scope for digital innovations and new business models.

What do you think is 'the' trend at the trade fair?

Clearly the topics of openness and ecosystems. I am convinced that the digital transformation can only succeed together. The concrete implementation of Industry 4.0 requires a trusting exchange of expertise, technologies - and data. A digital data ecosystem ensures greater resilience in the event of supply chain disruptions, greater sustainability and competitive strength. We at Lenze are proud to have recognized this trend early on and to be able to offer suitable solutions for Industry 4.0 with Nupano and the Asset Performance Platform. As a member of the Manufacturing X initiative and the Open Industry 4.0 Alliance, we also support the introduction of a sovereign, open data space for the entire industry.

What makes automation technology and PLC so special?

I have experienced a real technological and strategic spirit of optimism here. We live in a 'VUCA' world (editor's note: Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, Ambiguity), that's clear. However, automation enables us to overcome challenges such as digitalization, decarbonization and demographic change. Automation brings IT into the machines, increases energy efficiency because it reduces the carbon footprint and saves working time because fewer skilled workers are needed. This and the many great discussions with customers and partners make me very confident! There is also a growing willingness for more openness and cooperation - this is also shown by the interest in our digital solutions such as Nupano and the Asset Performance Platform.

What will you take home with you from SPS this year?

An incredible amount of impressions, inspiration, ideas and impetus. My heart beats for automation and I always find it enriching to be able to talk to so many like-minded people from all over the world in person. It's great to see how the OT and IT worlds are growing together and how strongly the topics of cooperation and partnerships are coming into focus.

Lenze at the SPS 2023: Hall 7, Stand 391