The core message at the Friedhelm Loh Group is: The requirements for digitalization and sustainability are not contradictory – they go hand in hand. Sustainability drives digitalization, digitalization enables sustainability. The key to this is consistently optimized value creation processes.

Industrial companies work in an area of tension – in addition to challenges in the recession, along the supply chains and in attracting skilled workers, the focus is primarily on the need for faster digital transformation and sustainability. At the same time, it must meet requirements for greater sustainability – the path to an »All-Electric Society« has high priority. A major task that must be accomplished with a decreasing number of skilled workers. From the perspective of the companies in the Friedhelm Loh Group, the key lies in the optimization and industrialization of processes along the value chains.

Modular solutions tailored to the application

The four companies wanted to show how customers can make rapid progress: The principle of industrialization of entire process chains requires the clever combination of software and hardware. This only works on the basis of data consistency along the entire value chain. Rittal‘s approach is standardized, modular solutions that exactly fit the specific application. This requires precise knowledge of customer processes and close exchange at eye level with the customers. This increases efficiency and productivity. Customers can get started quickly with their applications in the areas of Industrial Automation, Panel Building, Energy Transition, and Smart Factory. From there, specific products, software and system solutions for specific needs were presented in four deep dive areas.

Standardization in engineering

Speed for the energy transition: Transformer station as a standardized industrial project ensures less time and costs, standard-compliant execution and a digital twin for operation.

© Rittal

How can standardization in engineering bring more digital consistency – and this for different tasks in automation technology? Eplan provides initial insights into Cable proD, a software for virtual cabling of machines, as well as extended functions of the “eView AR” app, which uses augmented reality to overlay the real control cabinet with its digital twin. Users can also look forward to insights into the upcoming Eplan platform 2025. Cideon presents the Sparify software, which simplifies parts management with information from CAD models and PDM.

Control and switchgear construction should also become even more efficient. The key is data consistency along the value chain from electrical engineering through system technology and panel building to the digital operations phase of the systems. Rittal is expanding the possibilities with innovations in the AX housing series, the new CX desk system or stackable CS Toptec outdoor cabinets as well as with energy-saving cooling solutions. Rittal Automation Systems increases automation on the shop floor with the optimized Cutting Terminal CT M3 and new machines. The Concept Machine for fully automatic wiring of control components provides a glimpse into the future. The expansion of energy systems should also speed up the value creation processes. The opportunities increase through a higher level of digitalization and standardization based on the example of mechanical engineering.