AUGUST 202219MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY INSIGHTSCXO INSIGHTSBy Dr. Ulf Lehmann, Head of Business Unit Linear Motion Technology, Bosch Rexroth AGPRECISION MANUFACTURING AND THE DIGITALIZATION OF LINEAR MOTION TECHNOLOGYDigitalization is increasingly transforming mechanical engineering and manufacturing technologies, bringing with it not only unparalleled control and flexibility over production systems but so much more. This digitalization is transforming linear motion technology of the future, incorporating sensors and communications technology that provides real-time mechanical performance data. This data gives engineers new opportunities to integrate the data into their digital workflow. They can implement its application to help manufacturers achieve new levels of precision in the way they machine parts, assemble components and move products through multiple manufacturing stages.Machine manufacturers are currently experiencing a profound generational change. Engineers and designers in their mid-30s have grown up with cell phones and the internet. Digital technology plays a very strong role in their private lives and how they view the power of instantly accessible, real-time data to help them live their lives.This is also increasingly affecting the professional use of technology. The new generation seeks concrete solutions for automation processes and functions rather than components and systems. They assume that all applications, information channels and platforms should be connected and as easy to use as those in private life. This also applies to the selection, dimensioning and configuration of linear motion technology.Far from being a basic mechanical technology, linear motion technology is poised to transform the modern manufacturing environment over the next several years. This impact could be in several manufacturing areas, including configuration, ordering and commissioning, operation, diagnostics and maintenance. This is because of all the software tools, online services, intelligent systems and integrated sensors available to support the creation and integration of digitalized linear motion technology.Digital engineering tools and configurators will intuitively guide system designers more rapidly through all the engineering steps to create linear systems, saving hours or even days of time. The future will see further simplifications in this area, too, including interactive websites with chat facilities. To complete their designs, the users will work directly with the digital twins of the components and systems they configure.The manufacturers of linear motion technology components and systems face a dual challenge. First, mechanical performance data remains the decisive criterion for the use of components. To achieve the improvements in precision and manufacturing process control Dr. Ulf Lehmann
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