Sustainable Site Security at Schubert System Elektronik

Schubert System Elektronik

From hands-on engineer to

machine hero

At Schubert, the tech comes from the team. And that’s why Schubert System Elektronik (SSE) has invested in both. To improve its site in Neuhausen ob Eck, Germany, and position it for the future, SSE has invested EUR 4.5 million in automated processes, digitalisation and staff training.

Working at Schubert gives you a lot to smile about! At least, that’s the impression given by the proud, beaming faces at Schubert System Elektronik GmbH’s brand-new facilities. The modernised electronics production facility focuses on surface-mount technology (SMT), where printed circuit boards are populated and soldered with millions of electronic components.

More about Schubert System Electronics

Production employee Kai Reineke works on the HMI line.

Automation in production and logistics

The team now receives effective machine-based support for assembling control displays, known as human-machine interfaces (HMIs). Logistics employees also benefit. Electronic components delivered on reels are scanned and labelled with a barcode in the goods-in area. After production, an automatic counting device uses X-ray technology to scan partially used rolls. All component tracking data is automatically fed into the SAP system, providing an optimal overview of stock levels.

HMI line: Ten minutes cut to 45 seconds

Kai Reineke is one of three HMI specialists who used to assemble, glue and test every unit by hand in a series of intricate steps. One especially delicate stage was joining the glass and display to form a single unit, which took him ten minutes per control unit. That’s fast, but not fast enough in the face of increasing competition. With the fully automated HMI line, Kai and his colleagues are back in the lead. Loading, joining, bonding, testing and packaging now take a total of just 45 seconds – a massive increase in efficiency. For these seasoned experts, becoming bona fide machine whizzes is an entirely new working experience.

>> Schubert provided comprehensive training and qualification programs to ensure that the team could prepare for the automated HMI line in plenty of time.

Portrait of Kai Reineke, production employee at Schubert System Elektronik.

“The new HMI line has completely changed the way we work. At the same time, it’s fun to work with real state-of the-art technology and be part of this development.”

Kai Reineke, production employee in the HMI division

A screen shows the automated inspection of an electronic component.

SMT production: Precision laser cutting replaces rough blades

In the SMT division, three team members are also delighted with their new machines, including a laser device. To manufacture electronic assemblies cost-effectively, components are soldered in a cluster directly onto the surface of a large printed circuit board. The circuit board – known as a panel – must then be cut into individual assemblies. Previously, the pre-scored substrate was cut using a semi-automated rotary cutter – a rather rough method that often took a toll on the tiny components. Schubert now employs on a high-precision laser that operates with significantly greater accuracy and reproducibility, while being gentler on the material.

Precision soldering for sensitive components

Another area of automation involves the selective soldering of through-hole technology (THT) components. These uniquely sensitive components are inserted through the printed circuit board and soldered individually from the underside. Previously, this task was performed manually by a staff member. Anyone who has ever seen these tiny, closely spaced components can imagine how difficult it is to work consistently with almost surgical precision while ensuring that neighbouring components are not damaged by the heat of the soldering iron. Today, a selective soldering system handles this precision work, ensuring reliable processes and consistently high-quality results.

>> Automated production processes in the SMT sector reduce error rates, rework and scrap, leading to a more efficient and sustainable use of materials and resources.

“We actively involve our staff in this technological transition and provide ongoing opportunities for them to improve their skills. This is what social sustainability looks like at Schubert.”

Matthias Klein, CEO Schubert System Elektronik

An employee of Schubert System Elektronik monitors an automated production system.

New, challenging roles

Marc Danzebrink, COO at Schubert System Elektronik, drove the investment project alongside CEO Matthias Klein and oversaw its entire implementation. One thing was clear from the outset: “Futureproofing can’t be achieved solely through investing in technology, but above all by training and empowering people within the company,” says the COO. This is because highly automated manufacturing processes create technically demanding jobs that require a different set of skills to those needed for purely manual assembly.

Change and knowledge strengthen the team and the company

It’s all the better when employees are given the opportunity to gain advanced qualifications. Through various training courses, Schubert’s skilled staff learned how to operate their new systems, monitor processes, analyse faults and take charge of maintenance and quality assurance. Marc Danzebrink is just as delighted with this success as his team: “This helps us secure our competitiveness, as well as our skilled workforce and the attractiveness of our site.”

>> This is a typical Schubert approach that strengthens the people and the entire company over the long term.

SSE Story