The German Central Association of Electrical and Information Technology Trades (ZVEH) is spearheading the integration of digital tools and applications for the industry through LeanConnect, an open project data interface developed by the electrical trade organization. President Stefan Ehinger emphasizes the need for the sector to embrace the digital age, acknowledging that just as everyday products and services can be digitized, so too can electrical systems like photovoltaic installations, heat pumps, and charging stations.
Electrical trade specialists were introduced to an array of digital solutions during the Digital Day event attended by approximately 120 participants. This included learning about the impact of digitalization on productivity through demonstrations of best practices and project simulations.
Gabi Schermuly-Wunderlich highlighted the “My E-Trade” communication platform along with its associated app and a digital report booklet known as the “E-Zubis App”. Michael Critchfield introduced the KNX Smart Home Configurator, a new tool developed in collaboration between ZVEH and the KNX Association. Moreover, Ludwig Klatzka showcased the product data and project documentation platform Elektro1, the “E|Configurator” tool, and the newly-minted platform “Electrofy”.
An exemplary display of seamless data integration across software boundaries was presented by experts from various organizations. They demonstrated how information from the E|Configurator could flow effortlessly to Elektro1 or the commercial software by Streit. Additionally, Elektro1 has launched a Digital Project Organizer (DPO) feature, where QR codes provide customers and businesses with vital information regarding electrical installations and the responsible electricians.
The event also featured discussions on the opportunities and challenges that come with digitalization. Sebastian Biermann, of maixsys GmbH, addressed data security concerns, especially in smart homes, while Christian Dimanski from Mataono GmbH, shared insights into the rapid advancements in artificial intelligence technology.
Advantages of Digitalization in the Electrical Trades:
1. Increased Efficiency: Digital tools can streamline the planning and implementation processes, resulting in time and cost savings.
2. Improved Accuracy: Digital project data interfaces like LeanConnect reduce the likelihood of human error, improving overall project quality.
3. Enhanced Collaboration: The ability to share data seamlessly across various platforms makes it easier for teams to collaborate, whether they are on or off the jobsite.
4. Better Customer Service: Digital project organizers and communication platforms help provide customers with up-to-date information about their installations and service.
5. Future-Ready: Embracing digital technologies allows tradespeople to stay competitive and adapt to emerging trends such as smart homes and renewable energy systems.
Key Challenges or Controversies:
1. Data Security: As systems become more connected, the risk of cyberattacks or data breaches increases. Ensuring the security of smart home systems and other digitalized electrical installations is paramount.
2. Training and Adaptation: There may be a learning curve for electricians and other industry professionals to adopt new digital tools and workflows effectively.
3. Standardization: The lack of standard interfaces across different software and tools can hamper integration efforts, making it critical for organizations like ZVEH to create open project data interfaces.
Relevant facts not mentioned in the article:
– The electrical trade, including new energy technologies, generates vast amounts of data requiring proper management and analysis. Digitalization can assist in making sense of this data for improved decision-making.
– There’s an ongoing global imperative to reduce carbon emissions, with digital advancements in electrical trades playing a crucial role in energy efficiency and management.
– The European Union’s Digital Single Market strategy aims to open up digital opportunities for business and enhance Europe’s position as a world leader in the digital economy, affecting all trades, including electrical and information technology trades.
– Access to real-time data through digitalization can significantly impact predictive maintenance, which prevents equipment failures and ensures the continuous operation of critical infrastructure.
Some suggested related links:
German Central Association of Electrical and Information Technology Trades
KNX Association