PRODUCT REVIEWS
Precision folding of pluggable profiles
The Schröder Group will be represented by its partner Evomach at CASEITALY EXPO 2025 , the international trade fair for the facade industry . From 12-14 February 2025 , Schröder Group ’ s MAKU folding machine will be exhibited at the Fiera de Bergamo ( Pavilion B , stand 114 / 118-196 / 200 ).
“ This folder , with a working length of 3220mm , folds sheet steel of up to 1.5mm thick . In combination with the POS 2000 Professional graphic control and a fence that can be moved at an angle via two servo drives , it is possible to fold conical edges with precision . This allows profiles to be created that can be plugged together with precision ,” explained the folding specialist .
“ The pluggable profiles produced in the tenth-of-a-millimetre range using the two-axis back gauge save a lot of time on a construction site . Applications that require edges that are
Schröder Group ’ s MAKU folder .
not parallel include parapet or wall covers , roof edge finishes , verge flashings and cladding with a gradient ,” it added .
The Schröder Group consists of Hans Schröder Maschinenbau GmbH ( in Wessobrunn-Forst , Germany ), SCHRÖDER- FASTI Technologie GmbH ( in Wermelskirchen , Germany ) and SMU GmbH ( in Leinburg- Weißenbrunn ).
Founded in 1949 , Hans Schröder Maschinenbau GmbH unifies traditional and modern approaches in machine building . Managed as a family-owned company , Hans Schröder Maschinenbau specialises in the development of modern machine concepts for bending and cutting sheet metal .
The successful integration of the Fasti Company in 2006 makes the Schröder Group one of today ’ s leading providers of machines for bending , cutting , beading , flanging and circular bending all types of sheet metal . In 2021 , the Schröder Group embraced tool manufacturer SMU GmbH . Overall , the Schröder Group currently employs more than 300 people at various locations in Germany and overseas . n
www . schroeder group . eu / en
AI solutions to support manufacturers
“ Recent research from Make UK has identified a lack of understanding as the primary barrier to artificial intelligence ( AI ) deployment for UK manufacturers . The ‘ Future Factories Powered by AI ’ report revealed that only 16 % of firms view themselves as ‘ knowledgeable ’ on the subject , with just a third implementing AI in their manufacturing operations ,” AI innovator , M-Files , told ISMR .
According to Samppa Lahtinen , senior industry solutions manager at M-Files , manufacturers who are unsure of how to best utilise AI should focus on steady integration , rather than complex and multilayered projects . He advocates a ‘ back-tobasics ’ approach to achieve accurate outputs , with emphasis on the foundational elements of AI projects . AI adoption can boost the efficiency of maintenance and repairs , streamline compliance and support efforts to upskill employees .
“ Despite the fact that there is a myriad of opportunities to reap the benefits of AI in manufacturing , the sector is still lagging behind when it comes to the adoption of this technology . Before pursuing a total overhaul of their operations , firms struggling to formulate a clear pathway to mass AI integration should first concentrate on identifying tools that can be implemented quickly and simply ,” explained Samppa Lahtinen .
“ To do so , it is crucial to consider whether the building blocks are in place to deliver an effective AI strategy . This mainly entails correctly structuring the data that AI tools will rely upon to produce accurate results . It ’ s important to remember that the steps we take make employees ’ lives easier , such as auditing files to ensure they ’ re easy to navigate , which will also have a positive effect on the performance of AI and AI agents ,” he continued .
“ Manufacturers could begin by considering how AI can improve their methods for installing , repairing and maintaining machinery . This technology can provide recommendations specific to a piece of equipment that enable staff to fix faults efficiently . As a result , manufacturers can benefit from reduced downtime as employees are empowered to solve technical issues without external assistance ,” he added .
According to M-Files , AI can also bolster existing procedures for training and upskilling employees . Solutions can automatically update training records to ensure compliance , while suggesting courses or resources unique to each staff member that may further their development . Firms then benefit from a more skilled workforce , with staff feeling valued by an employer who is proactive in facilitating their growth .
Right : Samppa Lahtinen , Senior Industry Solutions Manager , M-Files .
“ Another valuable use case of AI is to deliver alignment with safety standards and regulations . Employees can utilise the search function of GenAI tools to confirm whether they have the necessary qualifications or certificates to complete certain tasks , minimising health and safety risks as staff are less likely to take on responsibilities for which they haven ’ t received the necessary training ,” outlined Samppa Lahtinen .
“ When it comes to investment project management , AI can be a significant point of difference . For endeavours that involve careful scheduling , estimation and documentation ( for instance , planning for new plants or factories ) AI and automation can support firms in organising vast amounts of information . Ultimately , manufacturers don ’ t have to be AI experts to benefit from this technology . Instead , identifying inefficiencies — then considering how AI can eradicate these bottlenecks — will improve both output and employee experience ,” concluded Lahtinen .
M-Files is a platform for knowledge work automation . It features a metadata-driven architecture , embedded workflow engine and advanced artificial intelligence . This is designed , said the company , to enable users to eliminate information chaos , improve process efficiency and automate security and compliance . n
www
. m-files . com
60 | ismr . net | ISMR February 2025