Liebherr Data Suite: Using data holistically
Gear cutting machines generate vast amounts of valuable data, which can provide users with a key to better process understanding, higher quality and targeted optimization. In practice, however, these potentials often remain untapped: Data is scattered, difficult to access and often not linked in a meaningful way. The Liebherr Data Suite combines a range of integrated software tools into a comprehensive system designed for targeted data usage.
Data from process monitoring, measuring technology and control systems is usually recorded and stored separately in gear cutting machines – often in proprietary formats and without a standardized structure. There is no centralized data repository; IT environments are consequently fragmented, and systems are often only loosely interconnected for security reasons. Existing valuable data can only be consolidated and utilized at considerable expense – meaning that much of its potential remains untapped.
A comprehensive, integrated system
This is exactly where the Liebherr Data Suite comes in: “We are creating the conditions necessary to bring all relevant information together in a single, integrated system. This results in a comprehensive data pool that can be analyzed in great detail,” explains Florian Schuon, Head of PLM & Digital Solutions, describing the concept. The basis is a standardized container format (.prec) in which all data can be stored – from process parameters and measured values to metadata. A new software tool, the LHProcessRecorder, continuously records workpiece data directly on the machine. Optionally, additional data can be collected using software tools such as LHProcessMonitoring or LHFingerprint´.
Efficient storage and processing
The data is stored in an SQL database that can be searched quickly and efficiently. Versioning ensures that they remain usable in the long term and are both backward- and forward-compatible. At the same time, the streaming-compatible format enables efficient processing of even large volumes of data. The data is displayed in the ProcessRecordViewer and stored on the LHRecordServer on the local network. This ensures they are fully preserved – even if the network connection is lost. A cloud connection is optional.
Independent analysis
Two access routes are available: With a web app, the data set can be searched, filtered, and clearly displayed directly via the LHRecordServer. For visualization, the LHRecordViewer also provides a desktop application. “We provide all the necessary tools to enable our customers to manage and analyze their data independently. For technical support, we work with the same system environment and can therefore assist with targeted analysis,” explains Florian Schuon.
Data ownership remains with the customer
In developing the Liebherr Data Suite, great importance was placed on data safety – particularly in sensitive production environments where process know how represents a decisive competitive advantage. By default, all data remains within the customer’s local network. At the same time, users retain full control: You decide for yourself whether and to what extent data – for example, in anonymized form – is made available for further analysis or transferred to the cloud. This enables data to be utilized in a targeted manner and on a much larger scale: for analyzing process deviations, comparing workpieces or machines, and systematically optimizing production parameters.
