XPanelĭesigners are including more functionality in components to be machined workpieces are becoming more and more complex. The system is designed for easy setup and control of the precision turning machines. The company now supplies all its machines-single and multi-spindle machines as well as turn-mill centers-with the newly developed Xpanel operating system. Index Werke is an example of a machine tool builder moving forward with Industry 4.0. This information, when connected to a wider in-house network and then made available outside the machine, can be analyzed to help make informed decisions about machine performance. Much actionable information about the operation of a machine tool and the accessories that work with it can be contained in the machine’s CNC. Many machine tool builders and accessory builders are equipping their products with Industry 4.0 compatibility in anticipation of its implementation by customer shops. Ready or not, Industry 4.0 is moving forward, and it’s critical for manufacturers to be ready for it.
