Digitalized Material Flow Control with Panel PC
Our Competences in this Project
Panel PC Expertise
WinCC Integration
Profinet Communication
Service Excellence
Digitalized Material Flow Control with Panel PC
Description of the Use Case
In Eurac Lemgo’s dynamic production environment, a SALZ Autoamtion Industrial Panel PC with Windows 11 IoT was mounted on an electric forklift, creating a direct link between production and warehouse logistics.
Every 10 seconds, a newly produced brake disc is placed in a transport box — its weight and fill level are immediately recorded and displayed on the Panel PC. This enables the operator to optimize material flow in real time and ensures smooth, data-driven operations.
The robust, IP65-rated Panel PC is designed for dusty metalworking environments, providing reliable process visualization, workflow management, and data acquisition — all directly at the point of action.
Forklift suppliers were unable to provide a suitable solution for this application. SALZ delivers the right industrial IT for demanding environments.
Customer Profile: Eurac Lemgo GmbH
Eurac Lemgo GmbH, based in Eastern Westphalia, Germany, specializes in the production of brake discs for passenger cars (over 1,000 models). With 60 employees working in three shifts, Eurac Lemgo manufactures up to 1.8 million brake discs annually. The company is certified to DIN ISO 9001:2015 and DIN ISO 14001:2015 and is part of the global MAT Foundry Group.
Performance Requirements
The task was to enable wireless data transmission without interruptions, even with a high production cycle rate.
Requirement
A stable WLAN connection ensures continuous real-time data communication between the production and storage areas — guaranteeing smooth operation and precise process control.
The task was to combine browser-based applications and visualization on a single device via Profinet.
Requirement
Running on Windows 11 IoT, the Siemens WinCC visualization ensures full Profinet connectivity and streamlined process control — all within one unified, industrial-grade system.
The task was to ensure intuitive operation in a dusty production environment, even when wearing work gloves.
Requirement
The IP65 rated capacitive multitouch display allows precise and comfortable interaction, enhancing operator ergonomics and usability compared to conventional tablets.
We found an equal partner in SALZ Automation. As a metalworking company in the automotive industry, reliability, speed, and flexibility are crucial for us – that’s exactly why we value SALZ Automation’s competent support, quick response times, and first-class product service.
Individual Steps of the Project
1. Mounting of Windows 11 IoT Panel PC directly on forklift.
2. Integration with Siemens WinCC and connection via Profinet.
3. Implementation of WLAN-based communication for mobile data logging.
4. Power supply from forklift battery with UPS backup for uninterrupted operation during battery changes.
5. Switchable interface between WinCC and Windows browser — for BIS bookings and warehouse movements.
6. Real-time recording of transport crate weight and fill levels for process optimization.
Advantages of the solution
- Real-time data for complete transparency of material flows.
- Persistent operational uptime through intelligent power buffering.
- Comfort and safety: Large capacitive touch display, glove-compatible.
- WLAN coverage throughout storage area for mobile data entry.
- Direct integration with WinCC architecture via Profinet for smooth operations.
- IP65-rated chassis protects against dust and mechanical impacts.
Thanks to the wide range of products, compatibility with our in-house programmed Siemens BDE solution, and fast spare parts delivery from existing stock, we can operate our systems efficiently and keep our mean time to recovery low.
Result
By equipping electric forklifts with SALZ Panel PCs, Eurac seamlessly connects its production and logistics. The solution delivers robust visualization, mobile data management, and process-driven communication — resulting in higher efficiency, reduced interface losses, and a rugged workstation that excels in both production and warehouse environments.
Panel PC Expertise I WinCC + Profinet Integration I Excellent Customer Support
Discover our Windows Panel PCs
Experience powerful all-in-one solutions with SALZ Automation Windows Panel PCs. Designed for industrial, healthcare, and business environments, they combine reliable performance, intuitive operation, and robust design. With flexible screen sizes, touch options, and an IP65-protected front, these devices ensure seamless integration and long-lasting operation in any setting.
In addition to Windows, the Panel PCs are also available with Linux and Android operating systems.
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