The certification of tightening is a significant topic in Industry 4.0 and has qualitative and legal implications when it concerns critical or safety-related fastenings. Compressed air, commonly used in plants for safety and cost-effectiveness, has a fluid dynamic behavior that is difficult to objectify. The certified fastening systems on the market are mainly electric, rarely mechanical, but not pneumatic.
The PFTC (Pneumatic Flex Tool Control) is the objectifying system for pneumatic tools, through a patented solution, which allows the retrofitting of pressure and flow values to any existing tool and transmitted via CanBUS to the control unit. This solution is adaptable and allows for the analysis of functionality, status, and malfunctions using a mathematical algorithm that compares the curves of air pressure indicators, integrating a touchscreen display that signals the outcome to the operator (OK/NOK). PFTC applications range from pneumatic tightening machines to riveting tools, where the functionality and correct operation of the tools must be guaranteed 100% according to WCM requirements.
The objectives of the PFTC+ project are threefold: validation of the PFTC system in field use-cases making it operational and complete in the automotive sector, involving CIM4.0 and its pilot line; reduction of pre-testing time on lines equipped with PFTC, introducing AI to generate savings in line setup; significant savings for customers on the maintenance of pneumatic tools through the study of Predictive Maintenance techniques.
At the end of the project, the system will become plug & play, enabling sustainable geographical and economic technology transfer, allowing the integration of AI technologies into an advanced product, expanding its applications in the factories of the future. It is ideal for use by industry leaders eager to certify/guarantee assembly lines where pneumatic tools are widely used. PFTC is a key partner for ensuring the quality of pneumatic operation.
