Swift conversion, cross-machine control and reliable remote maintenance: in exceptional times such as the coronavirus crisis, it becomes apparent just how fast and comprehensively pharmaceutical manufacturers need to react to volatile production conditions. Demand and availability can change at any time. These agility requirements can be organised more efficiently using digital tools. For example, it is more important than ever to be able to use live
chats and video conferencing for remote maintenance as well as augmented reality applications for increased precision. Fette Compacting is now making a comprehensive set of digital solutions available for tablet and capsule production. You can learn more about these solutions in an article on page 44.
Digitalisation doesn’t stop at Ex zone 1. Comprehensive networking in the sense of Industry 4.0 can offer the process industry significant advantages when it comes to efficiency, specifically with regard to integral data processing, system and remote monitoring, predictive maintenance or intelligent diagnostics. Jürgen Wenzel, Business Development Manager, and André Fritsch, Remote I/O Product Manager, of explosion protection specialist R. Stahl provide a glimpse into technological developments at the company in our
interview on page 30.
Finally, a brief comment on the title article of this issue, which deals with quick access to all level data at Georg Oest Mineralölwerk, based in Freudenstadt, Germany. Thanks to the Vega Inventory System, the company has fast access to both current and historical consumption data. You can find out more about this technology in an article on page 20.
Günter Eckhardt, Editor-in-Chief
