NOMINATED for the bauma Innovation Award 2022
MiC 4.0: Construction machinery attachments - a unified, common digital language
A cross-machine and manufacturer-independent data interface between construction machines and attachments is a pioneering step on the way to the digital construction site.
In Cluster 7 - Attachments - of the Machines in Construction MiC 4.0 working group, a standard is being developed for cross-manufacturer communication between attachments and construction machinery. The aim is not to standardize the existing mechanical, hydraulic or electrical interfaces between attachment and construction machine. The aim is to create a universal, uniform and manufacturer-independent data interface between construction machine and attachment. Through the intensive cooperation of more than 25 users, machine and tool manufacturers, a data interface via CAN bus is defined under the name MiC 4.0 BUS, which can map all relevant application cases for communication between tool and machine.
This includes the identification of the tool during coupling, so that information such as serial number, tool type and manufacturer are transmitted to the machine and are available for evaluations on the use of machine and tool. Subsequently, based on the information, such as the required hydraulic pressure, the construction machine can be automatically adjusted to the tool, relieving the machine operators and avoiding incorrect operation. The MiC 4.0 BUS also provides for the transmission of control data so that operation is as simple and clear as possible. The transmission of geometry data enables assistance systems, such as working area limitation, to work automatically with correct data and thus support the operators in their work.
Machine operators are relieved by the MiC 4.0 BUS, as the control of the molds is simplified and additional operating elements and displays, which are common today, can be omitted. The provision of mold information to assistance systems eliminates the need for time-consuming manual setup. In this way, the MiC 4.0 BUS helps to avoid operating errors and also increases safety on the construction site.
Both customers and manufacturers benefit from the fact that with the MiC 4.0 BUS, even complex tools can be used via "plug-and-work" and time-consuming conversions can be avoided. This means that the use of efficient, specialized tools becomes easier and more attractive, which has a positive effect on the profitability and efficiency of construction sites.
With the help of the MiC 4.0 BUS, information about the use of tools on the construction site also becomes available. This information can be used to draw conclusions for the customer about the load and operating hours of attachments, so that the MiC 4.0 BUS represents a step in the direction of "attachment as IoT device". On a higher level, knowledge about tool use can also provide insights into the progress of the construction site, so that the MiC 4.0 BUS also makes a contribution on the way to Construction Site 4.0.
As part of proof of concept tests, the MiC 4.0 BUS has already been tested with great success on prototype machines and attachments from various manufacturers in April 2022. The tests have shown the great potential arising from the dissemination of the MiC 4.0 BUS. At Bauma 2022, a demonstrator of the MIC 4.0 BUS will give visitors the opportunity to see the interface in action. We invite all interested parties to experience the MIC4.0 Bus for themselves in LAB0 and to enter into an exchange with our experts.
Following Bauma, the MiC 4.0 BUS will be published and made available to other companies with the aim of becoming the standard for communication between tools and construction machinery. This revolution in the operation of attachments will give further impetus to the digitization of construction sites and subsequently enable further innovations.
MiC 4.0 FILM for the bauma Innovation Award 2022.
Contact
Machines in Construction MiC 4.0
Verena Schmidt
Lyoner Street 18
60528 Frankfurt am Main
verena.schmidt@mic40.org
Tel.: +49 69 6603 1272
Fax: +49 69 6603 2272