Upgrade systems digitally - without specialist knowledge

Quickly and cost-effectively upgrade existing machines digitally without specialist IT knowledge. The EasyData project has developed a low-code tool that SMEs can use to record their plant data themselves and thus take an important step towards digitalized production and a digital product passport.

ZDIN's EasyData transfer project is developing a low-code planning tool that aims to radically simplify data acquisition in production plants. Small and medium-sized companies should be able to expand their existing machines with sensor technology, mark data points and model data flows without any programming knowledge. The software for data collection, preparation and processing is then generated automatically; interfaces such as OPC-UA are connected directly.

A model of the production system, for example a plant layout or a process diagram, serves as the graphical basis. Data points are annotated with a click or drag-and-drop; if information is missing, a structured question guide leads through the parameterization process. Augmented reality is also being investigated in order to record sensor points directly on real systems and to be able to visualize data later during operation. Prof. Dr.-Ing. Annika Raatz from Leibniz Universität Hannover explains: "In principle, a graphic image is used for the low-code planning tool, on which the sensors and data points are drawn. However, such images are not available for many older machines or evolved production environments. AR could be used here. The real system is modeled using AR technology via a tablet or glasses and the data measuring points are drawn in virtually. The system itself is then used as the basis for the markings."

A showcase at a plant at Leibniz Universität Hannover demonstrates the benefits in practice. The aim is to introduce SMEs, initially in Lower Saxony, to data-driven production, reduce costs and workload and at the same time lay the foundation for digital product passports without the need for a large number of IT specialists.