"The Connect is an industrial smart hub that makes assembly more flexible," says Product Manager Michael Loosen, explaining the further development of current control systems, "something like the intelligent center in production." From here, data records are transmitted to the connected screwdriving tools on an assembly line, and it also acts as a direct interface to the user. A single data interface can be used to control and monitor up to 20 wireless pistol and angle screwdrivers as well as electronic torque wrenches from Desoutter via WLAN.

In return, the production data ends up in the Connect or on any networked computer and monitor in real time for immediate or later evaluation, so that it can be analyzed, irregularities can be detected and rectified immediately and the data can be documented. Connect thus acts as a communication center between the application and the customer interface. "We use the system to ensure that all data is transferred smoothly, quickly and securely when using WLAN tools," says Loosen.

The Connect offers industrial users tool and data management with unprecedented flexibility. It is easy to install and the assembly line is stripped of hardware because controllers become superfluous; this reduces energy, investment and overall operating costs and increases productivity. In addition, work content can be distributed to any assembly stations on a line or hall. "If, for example, a tool needs to be serviced or needs to be used elsewhere to eliminate bottlenecks, the corresponding parameters can be changed centrally via the Connect and sent to the screwdriving stations," says Loosen. The respective cordless screwdriver can then be moved immediately to another station and is ready for use straight away with the correct programming: The screwdriving tools connected via WLAN can be paired with the Connect in less than ten seconds, reducing downtime for tool changes to almost zero. "No network knowledge is required to pair the tool with the Connect," emphasizes Loosen, "the connection parameters are automatically transferred to the tool via RFID or USB."

Installation even far away from the assembly line
The tools and hub do not even have to be in the same room to communicate with each other. "The Connect can also be installed outside the assembly line, for example in the production office or server room," says the Desoutter expert. This opens up possibilities for completely new concepts. The installation of the hardware, which is slimmer than a standard PC with a volume of just 4 liters, is extremely simple. Cable outlets at the rear or at the bottom and easy access to the communication interfaces at the front offer a high level of convenience, for example when carrying out upgrades or creating a backup. With the help of an integrated removable memory, the so-called RIM (Removable Integrated Memory), all settings and parameters of one Connect can also be quickly and efficiently transferred to another.

Install additional functions later
"One of the highlights of our Connect is its expandability," says Loosen. "Users for whom the comprehensive standard function package is not enough can install additional features flexibly and in real time." For example, ten parameter sets can be used for each tightening tool in the standard package. All common tightening strategies can be stored, and the tightening results are available as numerical values as well as graphical curves. Accessories can be easily integrated, such as signal lights for feedback of the result to the worker or additional monitors if a visualization with worker guidance is desired or required for complex processes.

Apart from this, the modified installation concept now makes work easier, as the operator no longer needs to look at the display of the control unit, which is usually mounted on the wall or a column a few meters away from the screwdriving point, as is the case with many current solutions in the industry. "This is because Desoutter's gun and angle screwdrivers have integrated OLED displays that guide the operator," explains Michael Loosen. "We also offer external displays for process guidance."

The standard function package already covers at least 80 percent of all applications in the field, assures the product manager. "Users who want to work with their own protocols, store more parameter sets or monitor the position of tools in the room, for example, can use flexible function management to scale Connect precisely to their requirements." This is made possible by a virtual currency called Unit Value (UV). "Our customers can activate any desired function using UV," says Michael Loosen. Desoutter has also taken into account the fact that customers want to try out functions before they buy a feature. The Maintal-based company therefore offers a 90-day test phase. By adding individual features, users can configure their Connect in the best possible way.

With the development of Connect, the Maintal-based company is following its "Desoutter 4.0" concept, with which it aims to drive digitalization forward. "The new hub is intended to offer users a platform for future-proofing their own assembly processes," emphasizes Michael Loosen. "In other words, you can use Connect to ensure full traceability of your screw assembly, set up intelligent error checking or intuitive process controls or even install KPI management." Virtual cables and other features that Desoutter and other industry leaders believe will play a greater role in assembly in the future have already been taken into account in the development of the hub, emphasizes Loosen: "There will be a lot more to come in the near future that will make everyday assembly easier for companies and their employees!" as