In cooperation with RheinMain University of Applied Sciences, boTec supports students in developing data-based solutions for real industrial requirements. The aim of this collaboration is to give students concrete insights into practical tasks in modern technologies – and at the same time to promote innovation and expertise on site in the long term.
The current elective project focused on the task of designing a digital solution for route-optimised maintenance in large-scale industrial plants. Such plants consist of hundreds of components – pipes, pumps, tanks or building parts – and pose particular challenges for maintenance teams during shutdowns (‘turnarounds’):
- How can orders be documented in a transparent and comprehensible manner?
- How can teams find the next component in the sprawling site?
- And how can processes function reliably even without a constant internet connection?
Implementation in the app
The students developed an initial prototype that addresses these requirements and translates them into three core functions:
- Task list and status overview – All maintenance tasks, including location, description, status and notes, are available on mobile devices.
- Route optimisation on the factory premises – An integrated navigation system suggests the nearest task and displays the direction and distance.
- Offline synchronisation – The system remains usable even without comprehensive Wi-Fi coverage; data is synchronised at the end of the day.
Outlook
The prototype provides a solid foundation and offers a wide range of expansion options – such as the integration of real-time safety messages, interfaces to existing maintenance systems, or the use of digital twins for even more precise plant overviews.
The project is a good example of how education and regional responsibility go hand in hand – and how clear tasks can lead to practical solutions that offer added value to both students and industry.
boTec as a partner
With more than 30 years of experience in the process industry, we develop solutions for efficient, sustainable and safe processes in Wiesbaden. At the same time, we are actively committed to social and regional engagement – whether through promoting young talent, initiatives such as Girls’ Day or our Golden Lily award.