Prof. Kletti, can you tell us why the MES experts from MPDV have been working on a new platform approach for some time while the MES HYDRA is still well positioned on the market?
This is correct in principle. However, we are increasingly observing that production companies want to integrate their own applications or to connect third-party systems, of course setting aside the customary ERP connection. Business-wide networking of production and IT systems is also increasingly in demand. Thus we conclude the need for a new, open platform architecture for MES tasks. Therefore, we will have open concepts for production-oriented IT systems in future. Probably in addition to the classic MES systems.
What is the difference between an open platform and an MES system like HYDRA?
With an MES like HYDRA, companies can capture data both today and tomorrow, thereby controlling and optimizing their own production. With the new Manufacturing Integration Platform (MIP), all objects relevant to production are kept together with their data in a joint data base. Apps of all kinds can access these objects and their data flexibly through standardized methods and functions. The plausible spectrum of functions far exceeds the extent of today's MES systems. In particular, the underlying interoperability allows the user to integrate any applications and systems via the platform. This is exactly what is meant by accessibility in all directions. Ultimately, the MIP is an innovative variant to implement an MES.
What added value does your Manufacturing Integration Platform offer compared to other platforms that currently spring up like mushrooms?
Correct, you can spot platforms everywhere. The MIP stands out as it is not all about the availability and distribution of data, but it is rather a digital image of the production and all related data. At the core of the MIP, all objects are represented in a standardized manner, which allows a large number of apps to work independently of each other. Most other platforms only offer the option to exchange data. The meaning of the data is not necessarily known. The MIP is based on a semantic understanding of the data. If an app speaks of an order or a machine, it is clearly defined what is meant. This is an important requirement for the success of such a platform, especially for the integration of applications from different providers.
Most other platforms can be either located in the automation or in the management environment. There is currently no platform for the intermediate level on which MES operates today. This is precisely why we are pushing ahead with the development of the MIP.