SCOPE: Mr. Waser, what do you think are currently the most interesting technology trends in sheet metal processing?
Alex Waser: The integration of automation solutions and digital networking into the user's process steps. And this is combined with impulses from Industry 4.0. I'm thinking of modular material handling solutions for laser cutting. Compact systems that grow in line with customer requirements and increasing laser power.

When it comes to bending, I am thinking of flexible automation systems that enable rapid switching between automated and manual production. All these systems can be integrated into a transparent and maximally optimized production flow using the possibilities of digital networking. They are controlled by powerful software solutions that are easy to operate.

SCOPE: What are these trends changing for users?
Waser: Digital solutions and automation are helping users to make fluctuating order situations producible on flexible systems. They also create more transparency in the production process. With software solutions such as the MES from Bystronic, users will be able to create quotations more quickly in future, plan their production efficiently and make the best possible use of their resources. Live monitoring systems such as our ByCockpit app are an additional component. They provide users with real-time information from their production during ongoing production. All of this leads to cost and process optimization. And these in turn are the prerequisites for sustainable competitive success.

SCOPE: What role will service play in the sheet metal processing of tomorrow?
Waser: Behind optimized process solutions, you still need a reliable partner with a comprehensive range of services. Service means proximity to the customer, proximity to their needs and challenges. The best processes are of no use to customers without the corresponding know-how of technology experts, trained service technicians and well-networked infrastructures. Bystronic will therefore continue to focus on consulting and training services in our modern training centers with the latest equipment. And, if required, we can also train our customers on site.

SCOPE: To what extent will the possibilities of digitalization change the service offering of the future?
Waser: Customers already have the opportunity to access digital service solutions today. In future, these services will support customers' process steps even more profoundly than before. And they expand the range of services offered by the integrated machine systems. Depending on the configuration, this will lead to more versatile or faster processes. The topic of predictive maintenance will also continue to develop. With the possibilities of digitalization, we are bringing intelligent functions to the service offering. This provides customers with information about the condition of their systems and the service life of components that are susceptible to wear. This allows them to schedule maintenance at an early stage. Bystronic is then quickly on site with the right spare parts.