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Smart Factory Consulting

Your industry consultation service for sheet metal processing

From the initial idea to practical implementation – as experts in sheet metal processing, we are your hands-on and equal partner for process optimization, business questions or when planning a new production facility. And we know that no two paths are ever the same. That is why our pragmatic solutions are as individual as you are.

Smart Factory Consulting – the co-pilot for your networked production

Industrial manufacturing is growing increasingly challenging due to skill shortages, emerging competitors and supply chains, and rising prices. Networked processes offer a solution, no doubt. But where do you start with process optimization? Don't delay your project future any longer; enlist an experienced co-pilot partner who is already well-versed in the sheet metal process chain. Whether it's digitalization, factory planning or future planning, we support you in your strategic direction and its practical execution.

Our approach

Pragmatic

As your co-pilot in networked production, we don't just deliver fancy presentations; we provide tangible proposals that generate profits and save time.

Measurable

The impact of our consulting will be evident and measurable within your company. To accomplish this, we work together to establish quantitative and qualitative measuring variables.

Based on partnership

A shared language fosters connection. We are fluent in sheet metal processing and offer advice on an equal footing, catering to small businesses and large corporations alike.

Objective

Smart Factory Consulting is an independent subsidiary of TRUMPF. For you, this translates to impartial consulting and industry expertise derived from a robust network of partners.

What our consultants say

As sheet metal processors, we know the ins and outs of the industry like no other. In Smart Factory Consulting, we take a unique approach by combining methodological expertise with a deep understanding of processes and technologies in the sheet metal industry – accounting for every process step in your production system.

THOMAS RUPP
CEO OF TRUMPF SMART FACTORY CONSULTING

The potential offered by digitalisation is often overlooked. But digitalisation must not be the end goal in and of itself, as at the end of the day, digitalised chaos is still chaos. Our path to digitalisation focuses on optimising process - success can only be achieved when we work hand in hand.

FERDINAND BAAIJ
CONSULTANT FROM TRUMPF SMART FACTORY CONSULTING

Factory planning requires all of our joint expertise. We holistically plan the content of your sheet metal processing for each process step, whether you're planning a greenfield site, an extension to your hall or just want to continue growing in your current facilities - we have the optimum solution.

ALEXANDER BUSINGER
CONSULTANT FROM TRUMPF SMART FACTORY CONSULTING

Rising energy and raw material prices, the shortage of skilled workers and retirement of knowledge carriers have all increased the pressure on production. We take a pragmatic and results-driven approach to help you stay profitable and grow.

JAN-LUKAS NELKE
CONSULTANT FROM TRUMPF SMART FACTORY CONSULTING

Cost reduction is the focus of many companies, not just in economically challenging times. The first step toward cost optimisation is creating transparency. We create a solid database in collaboration with you, drawing attention to the relevant parameters.

SVEN ONGERT
CONSULTANT FROM TRUMPF SMART FACTORY CONSULTING

We help our customers with the introduction of Oseon, the production control software from TRUMPF. In this way, we ensure your processes and software are perfectly synchronised.

CASPAR RIEBEL
CONSULTANT FROM TRUMPF SMART FACTORY CONSULTING

Working alongside you, we develop goal-oriented solutions for sustainable optimisation of your processes and implement your Smart Factory step by step.

ANDREAS TARABA
CONSULTANT FROM TRUMPF SMART FACTORY CONSULTING

Transparency and automation can help reduce production costs. As every production system has its own individual requirements, we help you find the right balance for your company.

SIMON TUTTASS
CONSULTANT FROM TRUMPF SMART FACTORY CONSULTING

Four steps to a successful smart factory!

Join us in taking the next steps towards building your productive and sustainably profitable smart factory. We assist manufacturing companies in identifying and realizing their potential for the factory of the future. To achieve this, we share the experience we've acquired through our consulting projects with you. Our range of services is backed up by a strong network of partners. This enables us to provide comprehensive advice until you are fully satisfied. 

It all starts with analysis

We analyse your company's process chain, from order intake to shipping, and provide specific recommendations to optimize your production.

Your roadmap to networked production

Accelerate your progress – work with our team of experts to create a bespoke plan for your integrated sheet metal production. As a result, you'll receive a completed layout and a concept for implementation.

Your smart factory starts here

It's time to put your future factory into action. We work with you to develop a phased plan for upgrading your technologies, automation and digital solutions, including software.

Ongoing change management

To ensure sustainable progress in your processes, we offer ongoing support for the continued transformation of your production facility upon request. This includes KPI-based production control and customized shop floor management solutions.

Figures you can count on

customers

You can already draw on the benefits of our experience from numerous consulting projects.

Countries

We work as on-site experts and are part of a global network.

Continents

The fusion of process and industry knowledge with cultural expertise.

When will you join us on the path to success?

Whether you have questions, ideas or a specific project in mind, why not take advantage of the guidance we can offer. 

Request consultation

Continuous improvement for your sheet metal processing

Put your processes in pole position – with production and costs firmly under control. This translates to restful nights and the energy to focus on essentials during the day. Sound good? Make things happen with Smart Factory Consulting. We analyse your processes with industry knowledge and expertise in lean methodologies. Frequently, it's the small levers that yield a significant impact. All with a single objective – processes that ensure the smooth operation of your business.  

Transform pain points into opportunities

Lean processes

Chaos ensures on the shop floor when production lacks proper process control. The result is poor machine utilisation and excess costs. There is a lack of transparency and planning security. To make your processes efficient and profitable, we address fundamental questions and establish clear procedures, such as ensuring that materials are delivered to the right location. How do orders travel from one work station to the next?  

Implementation time

Amid the hustle of daily production, there's rarely sufficient time to address and eliminate problem areas methodically. Establish a culture of continuous improvement with our assistance. We provide both the time and the necessary expertise to get started. Once the methods and key figures for your shop floor management are in place, you can utilize them independently to maintain control over your production. 

Integration into downstream processes

Sheet metal production planning demands extensive expertise. How can you effectively integrate the new machine or system into your current production processes? As your co-pilot, we provide continuous guidance and work together to find the best approach. We also demonstrate where you stand in comparison to your competitors and highlight the opportunities that arise from this assessment. Leverage the combination of sheet metal process knowledge and our best practice experience. 

Optimize processes with us as your co-pilot by your side

Lean management & improved processes
Process integration for equipment
Digital shop floor management
Sustainability & energy management

Your process optimization – our solutions

Lean management & improved processes

Order is half the battle – this principle applies to your processes as well. We take a close look at your production, uncover potential for improvement and provide lean management methods to help you realise this potential quickly. This involves practical questions, such as where are you losing time unnecessarily? What is the best stock level? Do you have enough storage locations? Daily routines often help to achieve greater transparency and control in your production. This helps you to gain confidence and know that your production facility is operating with data security. 

Process integration for equipment

Unlock the full potential of your new investment. With us as your co-pilot, you can seamlessly integrate your new machine or system into your existing production environment. This reduces your part costs, boosts output and enhances transparency.

Shop floor management

Manage your production with agility through shop floor management routines. By identifying and utilizing the appropriate key performance indicators, you gain transparency – a solid foundation for making informed daily decisions. Involving your employees in everything is also crucial,  as they ultimately breathe life into the processes.

Sustainability & energy management

Sustainability is not an end in itself, but a key to your competitive production. We closely examine your processes and facilities, identifying the most effective measures to reduce your consumption of raw materials, energy and consumables. And to cut costs.

What are our customers concerned with in terms of sustainability?

"I don't have an overview of my manufacturing processes."

"The company and my work are becoming overwhelming."

"My manufacturing processes are not operating smoothly; where should I begin?"

When will you put your processes in pole position?

Contact us to discuss the potential for continuous improvement in your sheet metal processing.  

Request consultation

Clearing the way to digital production

Digital processes enhance the competitiveness of sheet metal processors when tailored precisely to their production needs. As Smart Factory Consultants with expertise in the sheet metal working industry, we are here to support you throughout this digital transformation. Step by step, we analyse your current situation, identify potential areas for improvement and define the desired target state. External consulting can help to overcome internal resistance and implement digital processes that save you time and money. 

Transform pain points into opportunities

Clarity on the shop floor

Is your team wasting too much time looking for sheet metal and orders? Let's bring clarity to your shop floor together. We'll optimize your processes and assist you in the subsequent digitalization steps. 

Eliminate dependency on personnel

In many companies, a few key people hold everything together. If one of them succumbs to illness or is dismissed, the situation can swiftly turn into a major crisis. By implementing digital processes, you can reduce this dependency and make production-related knowledge more accessible. 

Overcome internal resistance

"We've always done it this way". New ideas often meet with internal resistance. Drum up support by using facilitation techniques and best practice examples to enlist employees to work towards shared objectives. 

Going digital with us as your co-pilot by your side

Process analysis & digitalization strategy
Production planning
Paperless production control
Digital shop floor logistics

Your digital production – our solutions

Process analysis

A chaotic process does not get better when you digitalize it. So, before digitalization, it's essential to start with analysis. We cast a trained eye over your processes and ask how they can be simplified. Once things are in order, the digitalization process begins. We help you to identify where digitization makes sense for your business, or may even be indispensable.

Production planning

Digital production planning solutions like Oseon help to keep your sheet metal processing flowing. It automatically incorporates last-minute orders, monitors your delivery dates and controls the machine utilization rate. The software is offered in three expansion stages: Go, Grow, and Flow, allowing you to choose the one that best fits your current situation. And it can be expanded at any time. Following the principle of "As much as necessary, as simple as possible," we suggest appropriate building blocks and provide support during installation .

Paperless production control

Are your printers running at full speed, and you find yourself spending a significant amount of time sorting order papers, technical drawings and setup plans? Oseon enables you to digitally streamline the information flow between work preparation and production seamlessly. We work with you to design processes that provide employees with the necessary information for their tasks without relying on paper. This not only reduces paper usage but also lowers the risk of errors.  

Digital shop floor logistics

Do you want to ensure that the right materials are always in the right place at the right time? To achieve this, we analyze your current logistics processes and determine the optimal material flow, including stores and buffers. We also assess technologies like AGVS (Automated Guided Vehicles), QR code scanners and automated material postings. All with the single aim of achieving a synchronized order and material flow that reduces stress and saves you time and money. 

What are our customers concerned with in terms of digitalization?

"Everyone is talking about digitalization, but as sheet metal processors where do we even begin?"

"The analog processes of old no longer work today."

"We can operate machines, but digitalizing the processes is a challenge."

When will you establish a clear path for digital production?

Contact us to discuss the potential for increasing digitalization in your sheet metal processing.

Request consultation

Factory planning for your smart factory

Regardless of whether you would like to implement changes to your existing sheet metal processing, plan a new hall or develop a completely new production facility – we are the experienced co-pilot at your side from the initial idea through to implementation. In Smart Factory Consulting, we deal with factory planning for sheet metal processing on a daily basis. With this unique combination of technology selection and factory planning, you can optimize your entire production process. Navigate your way with an experienced co-pilot who brings both time and expertise for implementing change.

Transform pain points into opportunities

Making sure that capacity constraints don't hold you back

Are you experiencing slow growth due to a shortage of machines or resources, like having the handbrake on? Are you having to turn down orders or pass them on to your competitors? Guide your production towards growth with a partner who has a strong affinity for sheet metal. We start with a potential analysis and demonstrate how to accelerate your production to full throttle. Following that, we design the machinery, layout and resource allocation to ensure your sustainable long-term growth. 

Say goodbye to skill shortages and workforce turnover

Are you eager to take off, but a shortage of staff is impeding your growth? Are you experiencing the loss of manpower and valuable expertise due to staff turnover and retirements? We help you to identify process optimization, digitalization and automation solutions to provide resilience. This enables you to maximize your production output with your current team.

Make your factory planning a complete success story

You may know your company's factory floor inside out, but planning a new factory isn't an everyday task. As Smart Factory Consultants, we possess a deep understanding of all relevant factors and practical procedures based on our experience from numerous projects. Benefit from our many years of experience and expertise to ensure the success of your factory planning from the outset.  

Approach factory planning with us as your co-pilot by your side

Technology & automation selection
Definition of the production system
Factory layout for greenfield & brownfield projects
Implementation strategy

Your factory planning – our solutions

Technology & automation selection

Are your parts better suited to punching than laser cutting? Is it worth having unoccupied shifts on autopilot? How can you increase output with the same number of employees? What do you use for most cost-effective production? To provide practical solutions, we analyze your parts portfolio and determine the most suitable machines and degree of automation for your needs. We examine your production facility and do not limit ourselves to "blue" technologies.

Definition of the production system

What would your ideal production system look like? For one thing, it needs to have the right systems and automations. On the flip side, the right manufacturing strategies and principles are also crucial. We assist you in accordance with lean principles, addressing all aspects throughout the project to create a unified production system where people, equipment and automation work together seamlessly to reach turbocharger-level efficiency. 

Factory layout for greenfield & brownfield projects

To begin, we analyze the material routing within your operations. We use this analysis to develop an optimal material flow plan and design the ideal layout for your machinery and stores. We plan the complete interior of your new production hall (greenfield) as well as your existing production facilities (brownfield). This is the best way to create a well-defined path toward an optimal manufacturing environment.  

Implementation strategy

With the layout finalized and our investment calculations demonstrating their merit, it's time to move forward with the implementation phase. A well-thought-out step-by-step plan ensures a seamless transition and startup for your newly structured or restructured sheet metal factory, allowing you to operate at full capacity without disruption.

What are our customers concerned with in terms of factory planning and growth?

"I can't recruit any qualified staff."

"To sustain our growth, we require a carefully designed structure."

"I don't want to handle every minor issue on my own."

Your factory planning – a complete success story

As your co-pilot, we guide you from the initial idea through to implementation of your intelligent sheet metal processing facility.

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As your co-pilot, we help with your strategic decisions

Amidst significant challenges, the opportunities that emerge often tend to be overlooked. We work with you to seize these opportunities and craft a comprehensive, step-by-step strategy for your smart factory that is both focused and actionable. Are you looking to free yourself from labour shortages and supply chains? Do you want to expand and make your business resilient? If so, now is the time to seek guidance from independent sheet metal experts. 

Transform pain points into opportunities

Strategy time

In day-to-day production, there is often limited time for strategic decision-making. There is often a lack of well-defined visions and future goals. What production strategies are you planning to adopt? Gain an expert external perspective with smart factory consulting. We work together to shape your future vision and establish quantifiable objectives, creating a strategy that propels you to the pinnacle of success.  

Reducing the investment risk

Whether you're constructing a new production facility or investing in new machinery, lingering doubts about the profitability of these investments can often persist. As part of the investment and break-even analysis, we perform thorough calculations and take account of both internal and external influencing factors. This approach boosts your chances of success by substantiating them with tangible figures.

Sheet metal processing – make or buy?

Increasing cost pressures are posing challenges for companies. How can you become less reliant on suppliers? Is in-house production financially viable? And what machinery would you need? We work with you to assess the economic feasibility, opportunities and risks associated with your options. With the guidance of our experienced sheet metal consultants, you'll make a choice that paves the way to success. 

Headed for the future with us as your co-pilot

Investment & break-even analysis
Selecting sites & establishing production networks
Make-or-buy analysis
Strategic company focus

Your strategic direction – our solutions

Investment & break-even analysis

Is it financially viable to adopt a new technology? At what point does a new building become profitable? At what sales volume does your manufacturing become profitable? We assist you in addressing strategic questions by calculating the capital requirements for investments in new machinery or a new factory. We undertake investment and break-even analysis to assess your company and the broader market. To establish a reliable foundation for decision-making, we also take account of your present and future production objectives and cost structures.  

Selecting sites and establishing production networks

Which location will put you ahead of your competitors in the future? We identify the best location for your future sheet metal or tube production based on a combination of qualitative and quantitative criteria. We act as your co-pilot, assisting in designing production networks and pinpointing potential competence centers. To ensure seamless implementation, we devise and enforce standards to be applied at all sites. 

Make-or-buy analysis

The choice between in-house production and outsourcing is a strategic decision. To make this decision, we analyze your parts and assess the cost-effectiveness of in-house production. When examining the make-or-buy question, the long-term sustainability of your business is more important than any short-term cost advantages. Additional factors that play a role include quality and reputation, the potential risk of knowledge loss and the level of flexibility. The ability to gain independence from the supply chain is often a compelling reason for opting for in-house production. 

Strategic company focus

Which specific industries are your primary focus? What is the ideal vertical range of manufacture you hope to achieve? What technologies do you plan on using? In terms of your company's strategic focus, we create a growth strategy that is tailored to your business and the evolving market landscape. This will ensure that your company is always in the fast lane.

What are our customers concerned with in terms of sustainability?

"I require help to achieve the set targets."

"Competition is tough, so I need to cut costs."

"I want to use my machines to their full potential."

Chart a path toward a prosperous future with our guidance

Contact us to discuss the potential for strategic alignment in your sheet metal processing.  

Request consultation

Our customers' Smart Factory success stories

The success story of our customer LoKa

How do you combine the production systems of two successful metal construction companies? This was the question LoKa's founders were wrestling with, finding answers from the Smart Factory consulting e

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The success story of our customer AutoLink

The job-shop AutoLink is taking off in South Korea with a move into a new production and a TRUMPF Smart Factory consultation.

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The success story of our customer Riguzzi

The Swiss metal construction company Riguzzi has networked and digitised its internal processes with TRUMPF machines and the modular TruTops Fab software.

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The success story of our customer Randon

Randon is the largest manufacturer of trailers in Latin America. To develop this position, the company is investing in reduction and digitalisation with TRUMPF.

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Managing Director before a machine

The success story of our customer Lasercor

How Lasercor increased the utilisation of its TRUMPF laser cutting and bending machines by 15 percent by implementing just a few Smart Factory measures.

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Colleagues in front of a miniature model of production

The success story of our customer SNBC

Liu Bo, Production Manager at SNBC

Customers are confident in our production capabilities. Our investment has therefore paid off, even though we are only at the beginning of our Industry 4.0 journey.

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Managing director of the Knoll company

The success story of our customer Knoll

Joachim Riebsamen, Head of the Unfinished Structures Department at Knoll

Over the past four years, we have increased our productivity in sheet metal processing by around 20 to 25%. This has put us on the right track.

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Managing director of the FBT company

The success story of our customer FBT

Ralf Stirl, FBT Feinblechtechnik

With the help of our Smart Factory experts, FBT Feinblechtechnik adapted its production to align with Industry 4.0. The initial successes? Impressive!

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The success story of our customer Lasertek

Miguel Ruiz, partner and co-founder of Lasertek

We want to be Spain's most modern and technologically advanced company in our sector.

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The success story of our customer SCHRAG Kantprofile

SCHRAG Kantprofile sought the support of the TRUMPF Smart Factory Consultants when planning a new production site. After carrying out intensive analyses together, they came to a surprising conclusion.

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The success story of our customer Dax

"The material flow on the floor is working smoothly now." DAX is working more efficiently with TruTops Fab Logistics in combination with an automated guided vehicle system from Jungheinrich.

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