Ensuring competitiveness: Use of the GS Data Matrix Code (DMC) in the technical industry – digital twins, IoT, Industry 4.0 and 5.0

The industrial world is at a turning point where digitalization, automation and connectivity are revolutionizing the way companies work and compete. The use of the GS1 Data Matrix Code (DMC) proves to be a key technology in this context. From optimizing the supply chain to promoting transparency and integrating smart technologies, the DMC enables companies to make processes more efficient and open up new business models.

Especially for Industry 4.0 and the transition to Industry 5.0, the GS1 Data Matrix Code offers an indispensable basis for connecting physical and digital worlds. A prime example of successful use is Schaeffler, a leading global technology company that makes a decisive contribution to digitalization by labeling rolling bearing components.

What is the GS1 Data Matrix Code?

The GS1 Data Matrix Code is a two-dimensional barcode that can encode enormous amounts of information in a small area. With its compact format and high reading accuracy, it is particularly suitable for labeling technical components.

Features and Benefits

• Space efficiency: The DMC can store extensive information such as serial numbers, production dates or expiry dates in the smallest of spaces. This is ideal for small components commonly found in the technical industry.
• Versatility: In addition to identifying products (e.g. via GTIN), other relevant data can be integrated directly.
• Robustness: Even if damaged, the code remains readable thanks to error correction mechanisms. This is of great importance in demanding industrial environments.
• Direct Part Marking (DPM): Direct marking of components enables permanent marking - ideal for long-lasting products.

Application in the technical industry

The GS1 Data Matrix Code is used in numerous areas in the technical industry. It not only drives digitalization, but also offers practical solutions to key challenges.

Important areas of application

1. Traceability

The DMC enables seamless tracking of products across the entire supply chain. Companies can ensure transparent documentation by digitally linking product and process data.

2. Anti-counterfeiting

In the automotive spare parts market, the DMC is used as a MAPP code (Manufacturers Against Product Piracy) to guarantee the authenticity of components. Customers and partners can use it to easily check the origin and authenticity of products.

3. Digital twin

The GS1 Data Matrix Code forms the basis for creating a digital twin. By clearly identifying a physical object, all relevant information can be linked digitally. This makes it easier to simulate, analyze and optimize products.

4. Maintenance and repairs

With a simple scan of the DMC, technicians gain access to product-related information such as maintenance history, operating instructions or spare part numbers. This reduces downtime and increases efficiency.

Example: Schaeffler and rolling bearings

An outstanding example of the use of the GS1 Data Matrix Code is the company Schaeffler. As a global player in the field of rolling bearing technology, Schaeffler has successfully integrated the DMC into its production and business processes.

Suitable for:

• Safety-relevant components in mechanical engineering: Schaeffler rolling bearings with digital twin and GS1 DataMatix for optimized maintenance and reliability

Innovations at Schaeffler

1. Standardization and ECC200 compliance

Schaeffler uses the GS1 standard to ensure that marking is globally compatible and interoperable.

2. Digital twin

Schaeffler marks its rolling bearing components with unique DMCs that serve as the basis for digital twins. These digital images enable precise monitoring and analysis throughout a product's lifespan.

3. Smart EcoSystem

The DMC is a central component of Schaeffler’s “Smart EcoSystem”. This connected system offers customers a flexible, scalable and comprehensive business model for Industry 4.0 applications. It enables the integration of IoT technologies and real-time communication between different actors.

4. Efficient data exchange

By using the DMC, product-specific data can be exchanged efficiently between suppliers, manufacturers and operators. This promotes collaboration along the entire value chain.

Importance for Industry 4.0 and 5.0

The GS1 Data Matrix Code is a key factor for the successful implementation of Industry 4.0 and the transition to Industry 5.0. Connecting physical objects to digital networks creates new opportunities for automation, efficiency and sustainability.

IoT integration

The DMC acts as an interface between physical products and digital systems. It enables the integration of components into IoT networks, allowing continuous data collection and processing in real time. This promotes intelligent production processes.

Predictive maintenance

The combination of DMC data with sensor data allows predictive maintenance. Companies can identify potential problems early and resolve them before failures occur. This increases operational efficiency and reduces costs.

sustainability

Through complete traceability and improved information exchange, the DMC supports sustainable practices. Companies can use resources more efficiently and optimize the life cycle of products.

Human-machine interaction (Industry 5.0)

In Industry 5.0, the focus is on collaboration between humans and machines. The DMC supports this development by providing an intuitive interface that allows people to access relevant information quickly and easily.

Matches:

• Differences between Industry 4.0 and Industry 5.0
• Industry 5.0: Origin, meaning and further development compared to Industry 4.0 for industrial production and mechanical engineering

The GS1 Data Matrix Code is more than just a barcode

The GS1 Data Matrix Code is more than just a barcode – it is a key to a connected and digitized industry. Companies like Schaeffler show how this technology can be used to optimize processes, develop new business models and remain competitive in the long term. From traceability to promoting anti-counterfeit protection to integration into IoT systems, the DMC offers numerous opportunities to successfully master the challenges of modern industry.

With a view to Industry 4.0 and 5.0, it is clear that companies that strategically use the GS1 Data Matrix Code are well prepared for the future.

Suitable for:

• The GS1 DataMatrix code as the successor to the barcode used worldwide: It offers protection against manipulation and enables traceability

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The industrial world is at a turning point where digitalization, automation and connectivity are revolutionizing the way companies work and compete. The use of the GS1 Data Matrix Code (DMC) proves to be a key technology in this context. From optimizing the supply chain to promoting transparency and integrating smart technologies, the DMC enables companies to make processes more efficient and open up new business models.

Especially for Industry 4.0 and the transition to Industry 5.0, the GS1 Data Matrix Code offers an indispensable basis for connecting physical and digital worlds. A prime example of successful use is Schaeffler, a leading global technology company that makes a decisive contribution to digitalization by labeling rolling bearing components.

Future-oriented technologies require comprehensive integration of digital tools and standards in order to remain competitive in the increasingly complex technical industry. The GS1 Data Matrix Code will therefore play a key role in numerous industries. From the automotive industry to aviation to medical technology, this technology provides a basis for innovative approaches to ensure efficiency, safety and sustainability.

Here are the key technical industry verticals for which the GS1 Data Matrix Code will be crucial to remain competitive in the future:

1. Automotive industry

• Spare parts management: Ensuring the authenticity and traceability of components.
• Manufacturing: Integration with IoT-enabled production systems to optimize the supply chain.
• Predictive Maintenance: Data collection for early error detection and maintenance planning.

2. Mechanical engineering

• Product labeling: Traceability of complex machine components.
• Digital twin: Creation of digital images of machines for monitoring and simulation.
• Maintenance: Simplifying repair processes through rapid provision of information.

3. Electrical engineering and electronics

• Component identification: Tracking circuits, chips and modules.
• Quality assurance: Prevention of counterfeiting through clear identification.
• IoT integration: Seamlessly connecting products in intelligent systems.

4. Aerospace

• Safety standards: Traceability of safety-critical components such as engine parts.
• Compliance: Meeting international regulations and documentation requirements.
• Lifecycle management: Linking physical components with digital information.

5. Medical technology

• Instrument identification: Clear identification of surgical and medical devices.
• Proof of sterility: Integration of batch numbers and production data.
• Regulatory requirements: Compliance with global regulations such as UDI (Unique Device Identification).

6. Energy and utilities industry

• System identification: Traceability of components in power grids and power plants.
• Sustainability: Monitoring components to improve resource use.
• IoT solutions: Linking sensors and systems for smart energy systems.

7. Logistics and supply chain management

• Real-time tracking: Seamless monitoring of flows of goods.
• Optimized warehousing: automate inventory management and replenishment planning.
• Transparency: Strengthening trust in global supply chains.

8. Packaging industry

• Smart packaging: Integration of DMC for product information and recycling instructions.
• Traceability: Meeting the requirements of the food and pharmaceutical industries.
• Anti-counterfeiting: Protection of branded products against plagiarism.

9. Chemical and pharmaceutical industries

• Batch tracking: traceability of raw materials and end products.
• Regulatory compliance: Fulfillment of legal requirements such as serialization requirements.
• Customer security: Providing transparent information about origin and quality.

10. Construction and building technology

• Component identification: tracking building materials and modules.
• Smart Buildings: Integration of IoT devices for energy efficiency and maintenance optimization.
• Documentation: Creation of digital twins for construction and maintenance work.

11. Textile and clothing industry (technical textiles)

• Product tracking: ensuring the quality and origin of technical textiles.
• IoT-enabled materials: Linking wearables and smart textiles with digital platforms.
• Sustainability: Traceability to support environmentally friendly practices.

12. Agricultural and forestry technology

• Machine identification: traceability of tractors, combine harvesters and forestry machines.
• Smart Farming: Linking agricultural equipment with IoT systems.
• Life cycle optimization: Data-based planning of maintenance and spare parts.

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