Automechanika 2018: Schaeffler takes visitors to the workshop of tomorrow

At its stand, Schaeffler will take visitors to the Automechanika to the workshop of tomorrow on a stand area of more than 1,000 square meters (Forum: Level 0, Stand: A01). Photo: Schaeffler

Schaeffler presents the workshop of tomorrow for the 25th anniversary of the Automechanika Frankfurt. From 11 to 15 September 2018, visitors to the leading international trade fair can immerse themselves in the exciting world of vehicle repair. In line with the digital agenda that Schaeffler is implementing as part of the "Agenda 4 plus One" future program, the Automotive Aftermarket division is also focusing on digital exhibits and uniting the future workshop routine with virtual knowledge transfer using mixed and augmented reality. In addition, Schaeffler will be demonstrating its overall expertise in powertrain, engine and chassis.

Complex repair solutions explained interactively and vividly - on more than 1,000 square meters of booth space (Forum: Level 0, Stand: A01), Schaeffler takes the visitors of the Automechanika to the workshop of tomorrow. Schaeffler's Automotive Aftermarket division presents products from its LuK, INA and FAG brands as a system specialist in the drivetrain, engine and chassis, and showcases product and service innovations at the trade fair. In addition, the company demonstrates how its system competence will meet the increasing demands of the automotive aftermarket not only now but also in the future. Schaeffler aims to achieve this goal with its extensive powertrain portfolio, its extensive expertise in engine key systems, and its wide range of safety-related chassis.



Looking into the future with mixed and augmented reality

Schaeffler's trade fair stand looks to the future this year. A highlight is the view through the mixed-reality glasses: The technical experts show live on site how the exchange of a dual-mass flywheel (DMF) and a timing chain with interactive support in real time can succeed. This is how everyday workshop work and virtual knowledge transfer merge. "We want the visitors to our booth not just spectators. They should become part of our product worlds and experience our 'more' in performance firsthand. Not for nothing is our motto "Get more - be part of it", "explains Michael Söding, Board Member Automotive Aftermarket, Schaeffler AG. In addition, augmented reality is also used in the presentation of the central competence fields powertrain, engine and chassis. Using tablets makes the technique easy and understandable. Depending on their interests, the visitors can enter the subject in different depths and get informed. If visitors place the tablets in front of one of the three augmented reality exhibits (powertrain, engine and chassis), virtual information about Schaeffler's intelligent repair solutions and special tools will appear on the screen. On request, additional facts about the portfolio, the market coverage and the resulting potential for the automotive aftermarket can also be displayed. Using virtual animations and interactive elements, the handling of special tools is explained easily and understandably.



A look behind the façade of future vehicle technologies

Schaeffler also offers fascinating insights with its "Schaeffler Glass Car" as part of the "Tomorrow's Service and Mobility" trade fair theme: the real model is packed with around 40 products and technologies from the Schaeffler world - including the E Clutch, the electromechanical roll stabilizer, the thermal management module and the E-axis. Schaeffler also has its sights firmly fixed on its service brand REPXPERT: technical experts are showing how the products and repair solutions support workshops in their current work on five workbenches. At the workbenches, tablets are also used, which are directly connected to the REPXPERT online portal. Via the online portal REPXPERT users can quickly and easily find suitable replacement parts and receive the best possible assistance in carrying out repairs professionally. In addition, all materials available for a Schaeffler product, such as installation videos, technical brochures and service information, can be accessed here.



The "Audi e-tron FE04" race car, which is currently being used in Formula E, is an eye-catcher on a special area in front of the festival hall. It is powered entirely by electricity and makes it possible to experience Schaeffler's competence, which has been tested under the toughest racing conditions, first-hand. Another eye-catcher is the "AUDI RS5 DTM Showcar" from Schaeffler on the exhibition grounds.