One of them is Wallåkra: A small family-owned CNC milling business led by Peter and Bea Strömberg. Known for their high level of technical expertise, they’ve built strong, long-term relationships with customers who count on their reliable service and smart sustainability practices.

More than just a user of e.g. GibbsCAM, Vericut Optimizer and up2parts autoCAM, Wallåkra’s core is an innovation-driven mindset, reflecting a commitment to exploring new tools and methods to optimize processes and deliver consistent quality.

Recognizing the importance of digital transformation for maintaining a competitive edge, Wallåkra has prioritized adopting modern digital solutions to streamline their processes and enhance operational efficiency.

To achieve that goal, one of the software solutions used by Wallåkra is the AI-based CAM automation of up2parts. Seamlessly integrated with GibbsCAM, autoCAM allows Wallåkra’s team to focus on complex tasks while automation handles routine programming.

autoCAM key benefits:

• Automated CAM suggestions: replaces time-consuming macro- and rule-based programming by generating programs for milling parts within minutes.
• Smart recommendations: proposes optimal setups for enhanced efficiency in clamping, operations, tools, and processing steps.
• Knowledge training on unified standards: to free skilled employees from repetitive routine tasks.

As an early adopter of autoCAM, Sandvik and up2parts will support the digital journey of Wallåkra to provide regular updates on:

• Early insights: initial outcomes and implementation learnings.
• Problem-solving in action: how challenges are tackled.
• Success stories: the impact made from their technological investments.

Our collaboration with Wallåkra demonstrates the potential of digitalization in manufacturing. Their story underscores that even small companies can benefit from advanced software solutions, proving that these tools are accessible, scalable, and transformative for businesses of all sizes.

Der Beitrag How digital solutions scale with the shopfloor erschien zuerst auf up2parts | Manufacturing co-pilot.

Bildunterschrift (von links nach rechts): Niels Fehre (Head of Corporate Investment Management, Schaeffler AG), Marco Bauer (CEO, up2parts GmbH), Thomas Krämer (Head of Advanced Production Technology, Schaeffler AG and Co-CEO, up2parts GmbH), Dirk Hullmann (Managing Director, Gildemeister Beteiligungen GmbH), Børge Anegaard (Managing Director & General Manager, Sandvik Holding GmbH)

Investment by Sandvik SE
Sandvik, a global high-tech engineering group that provides solutions that increase productivity and sustainability for the manufacturing, mining and infrastructure industries. Sandvik sees up2parts’ goal of combining human cognition, artificial intelligence (AI) and knowledge with standards to perform autonomous work plan creation, routing, quoting and CAM programming as an important initiative to address one of the biggest pain points in manufacturing: the shortage of skilled workers. “Generative AI has rapidly evolved as a technology for manufacturing and will play an important role in the future of closed-loop manufacturing. Our investment In up2parts will fit Sandvik’s ambitions in leveraging cloud and AI technologies to solve the automation needs in CAM and thereby simplifying manufacturing,” says Magnus Malmström, Chief Technology Officer at Sandvik Manufacturing Solutions.

Investment by Schaeffler AG
With Schaeffler, a global industrial and automotive supplier, up2parts has another investor on board who is also development partner. The commitment as an investor underlines the close cooperation that has been built up over the past years within the joint development project. Thomas Krämer, Head of Advanced Production Technology at Schaeffler and Co-CEO of up2parts, says: “Schaeffler and up2parts have a strong, close partnership, which we now want to strengthen even further. The joint development of an innovative system for the digitalization of toolmaking will be groundbreaking: using artificial intelligence, Schaeffler will, for example, be able to plan route sheets even more efficiently in the future. We will also develop a cloud-based AUTOCAM solution for the automatic creation of machining programs for machine tools.”

Digital manufacturing solutions for markets worldwide
The partnership with Sandvik and Schaeffler, as well as the existing investor, DMG MORI, create access to an extensive network, technological resources, and industry expertise. The collaboration will enable up2parts to further improve the development of digital manufacturing solutions and open new markets worldwide.

Strategic partnership for a promising future
“The strategic investors Sandvik and Schaeffler not only strengthen our financial base, but also bring valuable expertise and market knowledge. Their expertise will help us make our vision of a digital and efficient manufacturing landscape real. We are convinced that these strategic partnerships will lead to a promising future. Together, we will fully exploit the potential of digital manufacturing and set new standards in the industry.” Marco Bauer, Chief Executive Officer at up2parts GmbH.

Der Beitrag Strategic investment in up2parts by two global players erschien zuerst auf up2parts | Manufacturing co-pilot.

Image source: Sonja Wiesel, OTH Amberg Weiden.

The Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Media and Computer Science (abbreviated to “EMI”) at the East Bavarian University of Applied Sciences Amberg-Weiden and the AI Campus East Bavaria had invited experts, students and interested laypersons to address the topic of “Artificial Intelligence in Industrial Production”.

Top-class lectures

With Dr. Tilman Becker from the Czech Technical University in Prague, Dr. Martin Obermeier, Innovation Manager for Artificial Intelligence, Philipp Olenberg, Head of Artificial Intelligence (both Krones AG), and Dr. Christian Heining, top-class experts gave the conference an enormous depth of content with their exciting presentations. up2parts-CIO Heining spoke about the opportunities and risks of AI and SaaS applications in industry. In the winter garden of the refectory at the OTH campus in Amberg, he reported to the audience of around 50 people on his experiences with the development of AI solutions for manufacturing companies.

Heterogeneous data sources & domain knowledge

According to Heining, industrial AI in the B2B (business to business) sector is based on heterogeneous data sources. This refers, for example, to locally generated machine data, the analyzability of which depends heavily on the real application environment. Therefore, in addition to pure algorithm competence in the industrial environment, the decisive factor for the success of industrial AI deployment is above all specialist knowledge of the real production environment.

Important ingredients

Heining reported from insights gained in the development of AI-based SaaS solutions using the example of up2parts calculation, a cloud-based software for automated component calculation based on CAD models. According to the study, the most important “ingredients” of such a solution include, in addition to the central added value, time-saving automation, continuous improvement of the software and simple connection of local data sources.

Opportunities of Software-as-a-Service

In addition to the easy entry into the world of automation, Heining sees the unnecessary investment in infrastructure or personnel as a central advantage of SaaS solutions for industrial companies. The “gentle” introduction of production employees to a new technology is also a plus. However, challenges are to be seen in the area of data security and the transferability of AI solutions to individual use cases.

The EMI Forum presentations can be found on YouTube.

Der Beitrag EMI Forum: up2parts CIO Dr. Christian Heining sees great opportunities from AI erschien zuerst auf up2parts | Manufacturing co-pilot.

Das Co-TWIN-Forschungsprojekt war im März 2019 mit dem Ziel an den Start gegangen, die Zusammenarbeit im Maschinen- und Anlagenbau durch einen ganzheitlichen Ansatz des Digitalen Zwillings zu verbessern.

Ordering machine parts: Saving time and resources

Thus, as part of the project, up2parts focused on developing a web-based solution that makes media and system discontinuities in the ordering process of machine parts a thing of the past. Digital interfaces between machine manufacturers and suppliers can save time and resources. In order to achieve the goal, the so-called “Asset Administration Shell” (AAS) was applied, a manufacturer-independent and industry-neutral standard for the provision of information and for communication to establish interoperability.

Another use case of the project dealt with the use of augmented reality technology in plant configuration for sales support. The third application was dedicated to the optimization of service tasks on plants at the customer’s site.

Digital twin offers enormous opportunities for SMEs

Those involved in the project were convinced that the concept of the digital twin and the associated effects on value creation as well as collaboration of the future offer enormous opportunities, especially regarding the medium-sized German mechanical and plant engineering sector.

“Although the first solutions have reached the factory floor, many potentials remain untapped so far. It is essential to create the appropriate framework conditions to be able to exploit these promising prospects and establish the digital twin in medium-sized companies as well,” is the appeal of the project group. For this reason, the Co-TWIN project has taken an interdisciplinary approach to the digital twin with a focus on cross-lifecycle and cross-company collaboration and communication.

Participants at the closing event were able to experience the virtual configuration of a plant with the help of VR glasses and get to know the flow assembly and parts production of BHS Corrugated during a guided tour.

The project was supported by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) as one of 13 projects of the funding measure “Industry 4.0 – Collaborations in Dynamic Value Networks (InKoWe)” with 2.8 million euros over three years.

Many thanks to BHS Corrugated Maschinen- und Anlagenbau GmbH in Weiherhammer for organizing the event and giving us the opportunity to conclude the successful project in such an impressive setting.

Further information about “Co-TWIN” can be found on the projekt website.

Der Beitrag Research project enables the digital twin for mechanical and plant engineering erschien zuerst auf up2parts | Manufacturing co-pilot.

Only the cooperation with external service providers still needs to settle down and be optimized, as availability from Monday to Friday is still the norm in Germany. For urgent matters that arise on Fridays, it is sometimes a bit difficult to reach someone quickly, he says. But solutions to these initial difficulties are already being worked on, he added.

50% use Focus Friday

After the first three months, it is clear that about half of the team uses Focus Friday at least once a month in order to work through “things that have fallen on the back burner” in a concentrated manner, knowing that they do not have any meetings on this day. The other half of the team works consequently four days a week.

Energy level increases, stress level decreases

According to the employee survey, the newly gained flexibility and creative freedom are having a positive effect on employees: A large proportion of employees cite a very positive impact on energy and stress levels. The employees rate the compatibility of private and professional life with 9.2 out of 10 points.

Time is used more efficiently

In addition, the results show that many employees have learned to use their time more efficiently and also to actively question whether attending a meeting adds value. Parallel to the internal queries, the scientific support by the OTH Amberg/Weiden continues with the doctoral thesis on the “Effects of the 4-day week on employee satisfaction and motivation”.

If you are interested in a career at up2parts, you will find all the information, an overview of the numerous benefits and the current job offers on the career website.

Der Beitrag After only three months: Positive effects through 4-day week at up2parts erschien zuerst auf up2parts | Manufacturing co-pilot.

The AI-based software solution up2parts calculation, which enables the automated generation of work plans and quotations with time savings of up to 80 %, was very well received by the jury. The principle: By uploading a CAD model, the component analysis is started. Within seconds, a work plan proposal including costing for the component appears. With just two clicks, a quotation ready for dispatch is generated.

This enables manufacturers to write more quotations in less time and thus stay one step ahead of the competition. Especially contract manufacturers with daily changing orders and small quantities benefit from automated component calculation.

ife Award honors innovative spirit

The ife – Netzwerk für Einzelfertiger presents its annual innovation award for batch size 1+ to companies that have mastered the challenges triggered by the Corona pandemic through particularly outstanding innovative achievements. The aim of the award is to restore the faith of single-part and project manufacturers in Germany, Austria and Switzerland in their well-known innovative strength. According to the network, this has been significantly dampened in German-speaking countries by the pandemic.

For the first time in ten years, spending on research and development in Germany, which in normal years accounts for the largest share of capital expenditure, fell by more than 6 % percent. This was evidenced by the new Innovation Panel of the Centre for European Economic Research (ZEW).

About the ife – Netzwerk für Einzelfertiger

ife is the cross-industry network for single-part, contract, variant and project manufacturers as well as service providers and sees itself as a complement to the major industry associations. Experts from renowned single-part manufacturers, specialized consultants and representatives from the scientific community contribute their knowledge and experience to the network. They promote the exchange of information and approaches to solutions for practice-relevant topics in single-part production.

Der Beitrag Innovation award for up2parts calculation erschien zuerst auf up2parts | Manufacturing co-pilot.

Of course, up2parts will be there again to present the innovative solution up2parts calculation with all its features for manufacturing.

Find all Details here.

Der Beitrag DMG MORI in-house exhibition in Bielefeld: up2parts is part of it erschien zuerst auf up2parts | Manufacturing co-pilot.

An all around successful event of our development partner! Thanks to all involved!

More on YouTube: https://youtu.be/KSuxI3wC4Q4 

Der Beitrag up2parts at #openhouse of DMG MORI in Pfronten erschien zuerst auf up2parts | Manufacturing co-pilot.

“Thanks to up2parts calculation, we now create reliable quotations in a few hours instead of several days before. This has already enabled us to win a number of orders” – Hans Schacherbauer, Managing Director of HS-ferinnotec

Hans Schacherbauer, CEO HS-ferinnotec

Individual parts and small series in the field of sophisticated precision mechanics for customers from electronics, aviation, medicine as well as mechanical and plant engineering are the core competence of HS-ferinnotec GmbH from Zeilarn. Since 1992, the now 17-strong team has been guaranteeing the highest quality at competitive prices. To ensure high flexibility and productivity, the company uses not only modern machine tools from DMG MORI but also digital solutions from the machine tool manufacturer – including up2parts in the area of fully automated quotation calculation.

Reaction speed is decisive

“Often, our speed of response determines whether we get an order or not,” reports Hans Schacherbauer, founder and managing director of HS-ferinnotec. “Thanks to our high vertical range of manufacture, we are already well positioned in this respect.” Milling, turning, eroding and welding as well as reliable quality control are part of the wide range of services.

up2parts with focus on demanding workpieces

There is also a close partnership with DMG MORI outside of actual manufacturing. in 2020, HS-ferinnotec was a test customer for the PLANNING BOARD. “The clear software has brought us a big step forward in order planning,” Hans Schacherbauer is pleased with the paperless solution with a view to the formerly manual processes in Excel and on paper. When DMG MORI added up2parts calculation, a software for the automatic calculation of quotations, to its product range, the machine tool manufacturer was once again able to win a test customer in HS-ferinnotec. Hans Schacherbauer recalls the collaboration: “Together with DMG MORI and up2parts, we were able to expand the digital solution with the functions that are essential for machining companies.”

Artificial intelligence (AI) speeds up automatic quotation generation

Quote generation with up2parts calculation is based on artificial intelligence. Calculations and quotations can thus be created in seconds and with just a few clicks. “This works even with very complex workpieces,” says Hans Schacherbauer. In this way, efficiency in work preparation as well as the success rate and thus competitiveness can be increased from batch size 1. “This is optimal for our range of orders.”

Company-specific database for AI

up2parts calculation is based on a company-specific database that customers continuously maintain. The database includes machinery, materials, customers and hourly rates for individual process steps, he says: “Components are entered as 3D models.” Based on this information, up2parts calculation calculates the costs for the respective component – to within ten percent. “The calculation becomes more accurate with each component because the software continuously learns on the basis of our input and occasional manual corrections,” adds Hans Schacherbauer.

Reliable quotation generation in a few hours instead of several days

The added value lies in the speed. “Whereas it used to take several days to prepare a quotation, today we can respond to customer inquiries with a reliable price within a few hours,” concludes Hans Schacherbauer. Thanks to the time advantage over his competitors, he has already won a number of orders.

Supporting growth with digital products

DMG MORI and HS-ferinnotec are not running out of ideas to further develop up2parts calculation. Since this year, the product has been available as a software-as-a-service model as part of PAYZR, and in the future it will interact with the PLANNING BOARD. “The data from the calculation will then flow automatically into the order planning, which will once again save us manual steps,” explains Hans Schacherbauer, who is certain that the digitalization of his processes is an important pillar for further growth: “We will increase the production area as well as expand and automate our machinery, but activities related to work preparation and planning can also be sustainably optimized, as up2parts calculation and the PLANNING BOARD impressively demonstrate.”

Der Beitrag Quotation generation at the push of a button erschien zuerst auf up2parts | Manufacturing co-pilot.

up2parts GmbH, which emerged from the former software development department of BAM GmbH, develops innovative software solutions for the manufacturing industry based on artificial intelligence. The young company employs around 60 software and manufacturing experts. And the trend is rising. With this profile, up2parts is an excellent fit for the PartnerCircle of the East Bavarian Technical University Amberg-Weiden. “Digitization and artificial intelligence are megatrends in many industries worldwide and are of outstanding importance for us as a company as well as for OTH Amberg-Weiden as a university,” explains entrepreneur Marco Bauer, who founded and serves as managing director of both up2parts GmbH and BAM GmbH.  

3D printer donated  

As a native of the Upper Palatinate, it is important to him to be committed to the regional university and to take an active role in the PartnerCircle, says Bauer. With BAM, excursions of students to the modern production halls and lectures at the university were a regular part of the program. The mechanical engineering faculty supported BAM with a donation in the form of 3D printers. Additive manufacturing, as 3D printing is also called, is considered to be another megatrend that BAM has been focusing on for years and which has also found its way into teaching at OTH Amberg-Weiden, not least thanks to BAM’s support. 

At careerday at OTH Amberg-Weiden 

Bauer also wants to maintain BAM’s active style with up2parts GmbH in the PartnerCircle. At the careerday of the OTH Amberg-Weiden on May 11, the young company will provide the first proof. “We have a variety of innovative projects to offer around the digitalization of the manufacturing industry, to which we will draw attention,” announces Managing Director Marco Bauer. With its participation in the Europe-wide research and development project “Catena-X” and a major order from the globally operating Schaeffler AG, up2parts has caused quite a stir in recent months. “With our digital products, we are revolutionizing the entire manufacturing industry – and for this we want to continue to grow in terms of personnel,” says Bauer. Especially for Data Scientists, manufacturing experts and software developers, up2parts has exciting tasks to offer. Professor sponsor remains Prof. Dr. Frank Schäfer, the Vice Dean of the Faculty of Industrial Engineering and Health. 

Der Beitrag up2parts new member of the PartnerCircle of the OTH Amberg-Weiden erschien zuerst auf up2parts | Manufacturing co-pilot.