Digital nameplates in industry – the new generation of product data

Roland Dunker: The answer to this question is the digital nameplate. In industrial applications, products can be linked to specific data using a digital code on the nameplate. To do so, printed type plates according to IEC 61406 or VDI 0170-100 are used. The difference between the two printed type plates lies in the digitally coded content and permissible digital codes.

According to VDI 0170-100, 2D data matrix codes and RFID are permissible for the digital coding. In this case, the digital code contains all the printed content from the type plate, as well as a link and a clear, globally unique ID for the product, all in accordance with IEC SPEC 61406. The size of the printed 2D data matrix code, which can be up to 4 x 4 cm, can be considered a disadvantage. There is simply not enough space available for this on the enclosure of many products.

According to IEC 61406, alongside 2D data matrix codes and RFID tags, QR codes are also permissible. In this case, the digitally coded content is solely limited to a link, as well as a clear, globally unique ID for the product. The advantage of this is that the codes can be significantly smaller. For manufacturers, in particular, the joint use of both printed type plates in accordance with IEC 61406 is helpful. Regardless of the printed type plates in each case, the process of accessing the data, which is stored in the cloud, is standardised. This means that manufacturers in industry can concentrate on the product-related content on the server.

Roland Dunker: Before going into more detail about the content, we should discuss the much more interesting topic of the format of the data. Within the framework of Industry 4.0 and with the aim of exchanging machine-readable data and information in mind, the format of an Asset Administration Shell can be used as a digital twin. This manufacturer-independent format aims to exchange manufacturer-independent data and information about the asset in a machine-readable format based on established standards. The core structure is an XML file, in which data and information structured according to sub-models can be stored and transferred. One key sub-model is the digital nameplate, in which the information contained on a printed type plate is presented digitally.

To ensure machine-readability, additional information is stored for each feature, which includes a range of data, including a description of the feature, the data type, and classification, e.g. by e-class and data type. Alongside the digital nameplate sub-model, the identification sub-model and technical data sub-model have already been specified. Additional sub-models are currently in development. To do so, the IDTA is collaborating with the ZVEI, VDMA and Bitkom associations, among other organisations.

If we take a look at the content that a manufacturer can store in the digital twin or administration shell, it soon becomes clear that there are virtually no limits. The open structure means that all available product data and information relating to an asset, such as technical data, service information, maintenance information, documents, certificates, CAD data and EPLAN data, can be provided. This administration shell can then be stored on a server or in the asset itself.

Roland Dunker: In an industrial context, it is accessed in the same way as information is accessed using digital product labels on consumer goods. Scanning the QR code takes the user to a special website belonging to the manufacturer. All specific data and information relating to an asset is contained and displayed here automatically, with no additional searching required. A smartphone, a tablet with a camera or an industrial code scanner, as well as an internet connection, are all that is needed to access it. Alternatively, it will also be possible to search by serial number on the manufacturer's website, thereby accessing the information without needing to scan anything.

Roland Dunker: In general, the administration shell enables a range of applications, particularly within the context of Industry 4.0. This begins with digital engineering. By digitally providing product data, planners are able to incorporate all relevant information about components into their engineering and planning tools, thereby saving time and money. In this case, the administration shell is used as the basis for a digital engineering process.

System operators will enjoy other benefits, even if their systems are not or not yet networked. During the product lifetime of a component, it is important, particularly from the operator's perspective, that all data and information relating to the component can be accessed easily. The following six example applications demonstrate the advantages that arise from the use of digital nameplates in combination with administration shells:

• Automatically inform customers of firmware updates:
  Customers can be automatically informed of firmware updates by e-mail. This eliminates the need for tiresome searches.
• Simplify searching for product details for service technicians:
  When technicians are supported by a back office, all data relating to a product can be called up quickly and easily. This saves time that would otherwise be spent looking through enclosed paper documentation.
• Automatically create pre-filled returns forms:
  Automate and simplify the returns process. All available data about the asset is directly transferred to the returns shipping form and can be sent to the manufacturer at the touch of a button. This prevents errors and reduces the work involved in returns.
• Provide a digital maintenance handbook for components, machines and systems:
  A digital maintenance handbook can be developed based on the administration shell and digital nameplates. This means that expensive paper documentation is no longer needed in the field. This saves both time and money.
• Provide all documents and certificates for audits and customs processing:
  All certificates can be accessed directly by scanning the QR code on the product. Save time when looking for certificates required for an audit or customs processes.
• Identify successor products in service cases:
  Identify successor products directly without needing to search on the manufacturer's website. This reduces downtime and significantly improves efficiency in service cases.

Another important advantage is that the data in question is all stored and displayed relating to a serial number. This means that users always find the right data for the product in question (including the stored firmware, production status documentation, certificates and much more). Users can simulate the applications mentioned earlier at https://demo-digital-twin.r-stahl.com; here, they can also find more detailed information, as well as administration shells as prototypes for their own tests.