Modular concepts contribute to cost savings in all phases

Design and development

  • Reduction of development time and costs: Modular concepts make it possible to re-use proven modules in different machine configurations, which shortens development time and lowers development costs.
  • Flexibility in the design process: Decentralized concepts allow individual components to be developed and tested independently of each other, which reduces the complexity of the overall system and minimizes sources of error.


Production

  • Economies of scale through standardization: The use of standardized modules leads to economies of scale in production, as the same components can be used in different products.
  • Simplification of the supply chain: Fewer individual parts and greater re-use lead to a simplified supply chain and lower logistics costs.


Installation and commissioning

  • Faster installation and commissioning: Modular systems can be tested in advance and assembled quickly, which significantly reduces installation and commissioning times.
  • Reduction of installation errors: As modules are checked in advance, the risks and costs that can arise from installation errors are reduced.

Operation and maintenance

  • Easier maintenance and repair: Modular and decentralized systems are easier to maintain and repair, as defective modules can simply be replaced without taking the entire system out of operation.
  • Less downtime: Modules can often be replaced during operation, minimizing downtime and the associated costs.

Upgrades and extensions

  • Expandability: Modular machines can be scaled more easily and adapted to changing production conditions by integrating additional modules.
  • Future-proof: By simply integrating new technologies into existing systems, companies can take advantage of innovations without having to completely replace existing systems.


Making the most of the savings potential of modular concepts

The following tips will increase the efficiency and flexibility of your future modular concepts for automation solutions.

1. Selection of the most efficient technology

Choose technologies that offer clear cost savings due to low energy consumption and lower maintenance costs. Consider both pneumatic and electric options to identify the most cost-effective solution for specific automation tasks.

2. Full flexibility to avoid unnecessary complexity

Rely on concepts where you can opt for solutions with a completely modular structure or simpler variants with fewer interfaces, depending on your requirements. This saves you unnecessary complexity and therefore costs. You only pay for what you really need. At the same time, you have the freedom to adapt your systems to changing requirements.

3. Utilization of economies of scale

Use standardized components and interfaces to benefit from economies of scale. Standardized parts are often cheaper to procure and maintain, and simplify warehousing.

4. Maintenance-friendly design

Choose concepts that allow for quick and easy maintenance, such as the replacement of individual modules without shutting down the entire system. A clear, intuitive design with a clearly understandable assignment of components makes work easier for your service staff. All this minimizes downtime and maintenance costs.

5. Optimize energy consumption

Look out for solutions that are designed for high energy efficiency. In pneumatic systems, for example, particularly short hose assemblies between the valve terminal and the pneumatic actuator lead to significant energy savings.

6. Openness to future technologies

Ensure that your concept is open to the later integration of future technologies such as artificial intelligence. With AI, you can use predictive maintenance to detect faults at an early stage and avoid costly repairs.