An insight into production equipment construction and tooling at STIHL Tirol
The tooling and equipment construction department plays a crucial role in production, developing the systems and machinery required for efficient and precise manufacturing of STIHL products. Johannes Pfister, Head of Production Planning and Tooling, provides a fascinating look into the team’s wide range of responsibilities, discusses their successes and challenges, and reveals the technological trends revolutionising production equipment construction.
What tasks is the tooling department responsible for at STIHL Tirol and why is this area so important for production?
The tooling and equipment construction team is responsible for producing the machinery and systems required for manufacturing. The process starts with consultations in the production team to determine the layout and assembly stations. This is followed by mechanical and electrical design, along with construction and assembly of the equipment. Once built, the systems are installed, wired and programmed in the production hall. Finally, extensive testing is conducted to ensure the equipment functions reliably and without interruption. Only then is it put into operation.
What are the biggest challenges in tooling and equipment construction, especially in a highly automated company?
The primary challenge is designing systems that support standardised, easy-to-understand processes to simplify operations during production. As automation levels increase, the demands placed on programming also grow, heightening the need for continuous training and education in the areas of robotics and automation technologies.
What developments do you expect to see in tooling and equipment construction over the next five to ten years?
In April 2024, we analysed the organisation and processes within the tooling and equipment construction department and outlined measures for improvement. Our goal is to reduce reliance on external production by developing and implementing complex automated systems, such as screwing and packaging automation, entirely in-house. In the long term, we aim to expand the team’s expertise to handle these projects independently. Our focus is on delivering error-free systems that are immediately ready for production.
What technological innovations have influenced tooling and production equipment construction in recent years? Are there any current trends?
Artificial intelligence and robotics are playing an increasingly important role in the industry. AI cameras, primarily used in quality control, are now able to detect errors early, which helps ensure product quality. As costs decrease, these cameras are becoming more accessible and versatile. Robotics also plays a key role in supporting employees with complex tasks on assembly lines, improving both precision and efficiency in production while simultaneously easing the workload on staff.
The integration of AI and robotics not only improves productivity but also unlocks new opportunities for innovation, driving growth and making companies more competitive.
