GMN submitted its IDEA-4x Solutions Toolbox for the competition, which helps metalworking companies on their path to digitalization. The system is part of the strategy of the medium-sized machine builder, which is transforming from a traditional supplier of individual components to a provider of digital solutions and services.
The expert jury of the award included representatives from the industry associations VDMA (German Mechanical Engineering Industry Association) and VDW (Association of German Machine Tool Manufacturers), as well as scientists from TU Darmstadt and the University of Stuttgart. On September 15 in Stuttgart, they awarded the winner of the category to autonomIQ technologies GmbH.
From spindle manufacturer to digital provider
"Even the nomination is a great honor for our entire team and a wonderful confirmation of our path," says Dr. Jens Falker, Managing Director of GMN. "In recent years, we have consciously taken the step from being a pure spindle manufacturer for machine tools to a provider of smart, digital solutions and services. The nomination honors this courage for digital transformation."
The innovative IDEA-4x Solutions Toolbox for milling and grinding machines helps users to recognize early when a motor spindle, the rotating heart of every machine tool, should be serviced. This can prevent unplanned downtimes, production interruptions, and damage to machine components.
GMN invites cooperation
Physically, the IDEA-4x Solutions Toolbox consists of a small computer that enables the interaction of the sensors in the motor spindle, the machine control, and the evaluation software. The continuously measured values such as temperature, speed, and vibrations are evaluated internally in the machine and transmitted to the cloud.
The system developed in Nuremberg operates independently of manufacturers: Other companies can also equip their machines with it. GMN explicitly seeks cooperation with competitors and invites them to use it in partnership.
GMN sets high safety standards: It is one of the first medium-sized companies to integrate its data into Gaia-X. This European project for a secure, jointly usable data space enables companies to exchange digital information in a controlled manner.
Family business ventures into digital transformation
Digital transformation is part of a broader strategy at GMN. Just a few days before the award ceremony, the company hosted representatives of medium-sized companies at its headquarters in Nuremberg for an exchange of experiences under the motto "SMEs, be brave! From component manufacturer to digital pioneer." "We want to show other medium-sized companies that building digital ecosystems is worthwhile – even if it requires courage," says Falker. "Ecosystemize or evaporate: Those who do not open up and network as machine builders will have a hard time in the future."
GMN focuses on growth
Even in the development and production of classic, physical machine components, GMN is focusing on growth: In May, the machine builder began construction of a new production hall in Nuremberg, with an investment volume of around 28 million euros.
Contact:
