In the mechanical engineering industry, thinking is increasingly shifting from just delivering products to offering ongoing value. Servitization is a good example of this. It’s about maintaining, improving and expanding systems over their lifetime so that they grow with technological developments and changing production needs.
At Gerbin Control, we apply this principle to control panels by making them modular and accessible for both software and hardware updates. This keeps an installation future-proof, even when new features, higher performance or stricter safety standards are desired.
Table of Contents
What is servitization in panel building?
Servitization means that once a panel is delivered in the field, such as in a factory or at a remote location, it does not remain stationary in its development. Instead, it can be modified over time. Consider installing firmware updates for control components, adding additional modules for communications or power distribution, or integrating new Internet of Things applications.
The premise is that the panel continues to meet the functional requirements of the user and that investments pay off longer.
Modular architecture as a basis
A modular panel architecture allows parts of the system to be easily replaced or expanded without disassembling the entire cabinet. This speeds up on-site modifications and makes maintenance more efficient. When designing, we consider compatibility so that new components work seamlessly with existing ones. This also allows integration with business systems, such as ERP software for production planning, to remain flexible.
OPEN CALCULATION
OFFER IN 5 DAYS
SUSTAINABLE INNOVATIONS
UL/CSA
AT HOME
Remote updates and hardware modifications
An important part of servitization is the ability to update software and firmware remotely. We design panels so that software updates can be performed safely and in a controlled manner, such as via a secure network connection or with an onsite USB stick.
Important points of interest in these updates are:
- secure access to the update process
- clear firmware version management
- minimal impact on production planning
For hardware modifications, we ensure that new modules or components can be easily installed without prolonged downtime.
Preventing aging
Technology changes rapidly, and without a proper plan, a control panel can fall behind after only a few years. With a thoughtful servitization strategy, the panel remains compatible with new standards, safe according to the latest regulations and performing optimally. This prevents costly replacements and significantly extends the life of the installation.
Contact our experienced innovator
Cees Brasser
With more than 26 years of experience at the helm of Gerbin Control, Cees Brasser is your expert on panel construction for the machinery sector. Discover how his knowledge and insight can take your project to new heights. Get in touch now!
Practical Experience
In projects at OEMs and service departments, we have found that upgrading panels in stages has clear benefits. At a customer in the manufacturing industry, firmware and additional I/O modules were installed in stages. Production could continue as usual during this process and all systems were equipped with the latest functionality within a short time. The result was increased reliability without disrupting daily work.
At Gerbin Control, we combine our knowledge of modular design, remote updates and maintenance strategies with a service-oriented approach. In this way, we ensure that control panels maintain their value throughout their life cycle and move with the user’s needs.
Want to know how servitization can future-proof your panel designs? Contact our team for a customized consultation.
