EFAFLEX unveils new IoT door solution

With the innovative system EFA-SmartConnect, high-speed door manufacturer EFAFLEX says is sets new standards in the intelligent networking of door systems. The module enables both the operation and the planning of customer service and maintenance processes in their own, protected WLAN network.

All parameters can be conveniently controlled and visualised regardless of location and without contact. The user is always connected to the network via the app and benefits from numerous individually adjustable features for efficient, cost-saving real-time door management.

In times of ever-increasing digital change, not only future-proof technologies, but also reliable data security systems are essential in order to make work processes efficient, scalable, sustainable and competitive. EFA-SmartConnect meets the increasing demands of this modern corporate world with the consistently digital handling of door operation in its own, protected WLAN network.

The IoT solution is operated via the EFA smartphone app, compatible with the common operating systems iOS and Android, the functions of which include the visualisation of the current door status, the parameterisation of essential door settings such as open time and the display of maintenance data, error memory and current error messages including descriptions and root cause analysis. Thanks to the smart network with the manufacturer, users can also send service reports directly to EFAFLEX if they wish.

These properties contribute to streamlining processes on the user side and thus creating new space for efficiency and productivity increases and ensuring maximum smooth door operation. Thanks to in-depth analysis and clear visualisation, the time required for function checks, service requests and troubleshooting in the event of a fault is reduced considerably.

In addition, users can precisely calculate the exchange of spare parts, among other things. This in turn prevents and reduces costly downtimes and reduces the cost of customer service. The fact that EFA-SmartConnect is not only intuitive to use, but also works independently of additional IT programs, for example for cloud services, makes handling particularly easy.

Doors communicate in a network

Several doors equipped with the smart system can be connected to each other within a network and subsequently communicate with each other and with the app. If a particularly high number of gates is to be integrated into the management, for example in large halls, this is also possible because several networks can be operated in parallel. The module continuously forwards the current status report of each individual door to the app, from which the user can forward relevant data to the manufacturer if required.

As the operator of the door systems, they decide which of the available information they make available to EFAFLEX for further steps, such as reports on status, faults or maintenance issues. Depending on the needs they have assessed themselves, the app user can supplement this with free text information, for example with explanations or the request of IT support or a technician. In addition, the messages to be sent can be illustrated with photos.

Effective immediately, EFAFLEX will install the module in selected door controls. In order to be able to record and operate doors already in operation with EFA-SmartConnect, an additional board is integrated into the existing system, provided with a QR code, a serial number and access data. Older door systems can also be easily added to the network via the app, so that operators can also take advantage of the innovative module.

Interroll to expand Baal manufacturing site

Interroll has laid the groundwork for a significant expansion of its product portfolio at its site in Baal-Hückelhoven, Germany, near Düsseldorf, by acquiring a neighbouring plot of land. The new property, which is already home to an industrial building, covers a floor area of almost 13,000 sq m. As early as 2022, Interroll will introduce a new platform for hygienic food processing and logistics from the site and consistently expand it in the coming years.

“The expansion, which will increase our production area at the site by around 40%, will be ready for operation in the third quarter of 2022,” says Hauke Tiedemann, head of the Global Center of Excellence for drum motors in Baal. “In this way, we are creating the conditions for the introduction of innovative conveyor solutions that are specifically suited for use in hygienically demanding environments, such as food processing. This enables our customers in this important area to further increase productivity while improving hygiene in their material flow.”

In recent years, Interroll has already successively invested around €20m in the Baal-Hückelhoven site. The Group’s Innovation Projects and Development Center (IPDC) and the Interroll Academy, which is responsible for internal and external training measures, are also based there. Around 240 Interroll employees now work in Baal. By 2025 at the latest, the site expansion and strengthening of expertise for customers in the food industry is expected to add around 60 jobs.

“With this investment in one of our most important sites, we are once again confirming our long-term growth course, with which we will continue to satisfy our customers’ demand for existing and new solutions in the coming years,” says Jens Strüwing, Executive Vice President Products & Technology and a member of Interroll Group Management. “As part of this growth strategy, for example, new plants were recently commissioned in the Heilbronn/Heidelberg, Germany, area and in Georgia, United States. In addition, a new plant will be opened in China next year.”

EFAFLEX high-speed doors help optimise workflow

Facilitating fast and efficient movement of goods; minimising the risk of incidents; increasing workflow; automatic activation; creating a safe environment and protecting operatives around high- risk machinery… these are just some of the reasons EFAFLEX says it has become the partner of choice for customers operating within the processing or logistics sector.

How exactly can EFAFLEX help the processing & logistics industry? Take an aerial view of a warehouse or logistics facility. You might see loading bays where goods arrive and depart, production lines where produce is assembled or manufactured, and temperature or environmentally controlled areas where goods are stored in specific conditions. Add in machinery, operatives, and produce. This is an environment that is familiar to EFAFLEX.

At loading bays and docks where areas are exposed to the elements, fast-opening and -closing door speeds are essential. Internally between halls or different zones of production areas temperature control, or air purity may be your key consideration. Along conveyor lines, or around robotic or hazardous equipment, machine protection may be your concern.

Return to PPMA

EFAFLEX UK Limited returns to PPMA where three of its most popular high-speed doors used within the packing and processing sector will be in action. Darren Turrell, UK Managing Director, says: “Warehouse and logistics clients operate in an environment that continually expects shorter and shorter delivery lead times, while finding ways to improve and streamline processes, enhance operational performance and bottom line. It’s a fact that the transportation and storage industry have more incidents involving workplace vehicles than any other sector.£

EFAFLEX will be showcasing its high-speed spiral featuring its EFA-THERM insulating laths, the EFA-STT turbo, and the fabric roll-up option.

Turrell continues: “There is nothing quite like seeing our high-speed doors in action. PPMA gives us this opportunity to meet with customers and discuss their specific requirements. Each order is manufactured bespoke to the customer requirements. Our high-speed doors are a premium brand, but when you factor in the whole-life cost savings, such as radically reduced energy costs due to their operating speeds and insulation properties, they are a cost-effective option.

“60% of our orders are from customers who have made this calculation and chosen to replace old roller shutters or overhead sectional doors because of the many benefits that an EFAFLEX door will offer.

Consider too that incidents not only can cause injuries to people, but they can result in unwanted costly downtime, which can have an unexpected knock-on effect that ripples throughout the processing facility.

Key features of EFAFLEX processing & logistics solutions:

  • A complete range of doors to suit every aspect of the facility
  • Internal roll up doors or exterior spiral and folding models available
  • Machine Protection solutions to add safety in higher risk areas
  • A range of activation methods to suit your needs
  • Selection of colours and finishes

See the EFAFLEX range of interior and exterior doors at PPMA stand J62, from 28 -30 September, NEC, Birmingham.

 

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