The fiber laser series MasterLINE, which is sold in German-speaking countries under the product name “MSE SmartFL”, has a wide range of applications. After all, a wide variety of metalworking companies need precise 2D cuts – from mechanical engineering to facade construction to automotive or vehicle construction. Over the course of the year, the laser cutting system is also used for science and research. With the AI production network Augsburg, a renowned alliance of the University of Augsburg, the University of Applied Sciences, the Fraunhofer Institute, the DLR and innovative companies is investing in the high-performance 2D laser system, which was prepared for the production of the future.

The plans of the AI production network are clearly defined: to develop artificial intelligence hand in hand with science and manufacturing companies, mostly medium-sized companies, and to quickly transfer the potential into the real world of production. To this end, a network of high-level research partners has been brought together since its launch in 2021: including the University of Augsburg, the Augsburg University of Applied Sciences, the Fraunhofer IGCV and the German Aerospace Center. The ultimate goal is to permanently improve the quality of components and to come as close as possible to “zero-error” production in the sense of sustainability without rejects. With the support of the Free State of Bavaria, a great deal of investment has been made in this area and a showroom has also been set up for research and demonstration purposes. A laser series, MasterLINE, will be available in the exclusively equipped demonstration center in the course of the year.

The KI production network invested in the innovative 2D laser In addition, the laser series is ready for Industry 4.0. The laser and other components are optimized for use with IndustryFusion, a cross-manufacturer, open-source networking solution for smart factories and smart products.

Perfect conditions for research and demonstration

“The MasterLINE series, its peripherals and the open-source IIoT networking solution IndustryFusion are perfectly aligned. This provides the AI production network with optimal conditions for achieving its goals under real-world production conditions using highly innovative systems. We are proud to be able to contribute to this joint project, which aims to maintain and strengthen the competitiveness of medium-sized companies for the future,” says Igor Mikulina, President of the IndustryFusion Foundation.

The IndustryFusion Foundation, established in 2020, is developing the open-source networking solution IndustryFusion with partners such as Intel and SUSE. It is based on many years of close cooperation between machine and plant manufacturers, component manufacturers, software developers, and representatives from science and politics in the Industry Business Network 4.0 e.V. association. IT giants such as Intel and SUSE are also involved in the association's efforts to provide users with an efficient cutting solution with future-oriented added value.

The AI Production Network chose a CNC system with a 2D laser cutting head from Thermacut's EX-TRABEAM® series and an IPG YLR-3000 fiber laser source. The net processing area available is 3,000 x 1,500 mm.

More about the AI production network

The Augsburg AI production network was launched at the beginning of 2021 with the aim of using artificial intelligence (AI) methods to keep the production and automation of companies throughout Bavaria competitive and future-proof. The Free State of Bavaria is supporting the Augsburg AI production network as part of the High-Tech Agenda Plus funding initiative launched in 2019. The network's research partners include the University of Augsburg, the Augsburg University of Applied Sciences, the Fraunhofer Institute for Casting, Composite and Processing Technology (IGCV), the German Aerospace Center (DLR) with its Augsburg Center for Lightweight Production Technology (ZLP), as well as the Swabian Chamber of Crafts and the Swabian Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

More about the laser series
‍MasterLINE

Find out more about the IndustryFusion Foundation and the open-source networking solution here:
www.industry-fusion.org