thyssenkrupp Materials Services has developed an AI platform that digitizes the nesting process — the intelligent placement of blanks on sheet metal — as well as the pricing process. The new platform, called smart.processing, is integrated into the online shop of Max Cochius, a leading metal distribution provider in Germany.
With smart.processing, Max Cochius customers can purchase material in any desired free-form, 24/7, from anywhere. By optimizing the placement of blanks, smart.processing minimizes material consumption and reduces costs.
From Quote to Order with Just One Click
In the metal distribution sector, phone inquiries and manual price calculations for blanks and quotes are still common. However, the AI platform smart.processing allows customers to obtain prices for their blanks within seconds and complete the purchase online. The complexity of the shape is no obstacle for automated price calculation: any shape is possible, from tubes and sheets to fully customized free-forms.
Customers can upload their technical drawing as a CAD file and choose materials from a wide range, including aluminum, stainless steel, copper, brass, and special materials. The Max Cochius online shop offers over 11,000 semi-finished products, all displayed as movable 3D models. These can be cut to size using vertical and horizontal sawing as well as waterjet cutting.
smart.processing Development Through Innovation
The idea for smart.processing originated from a thyssenkrupp hackathon called “hack4tk.” thyssenkrupp Materials Services' Digital Technology Office (DTO) took on the development of the platform in collaboration with internal customers. Plans are underway to introduce smart.processing in other thyssenkrupp companies, further develop its functions, and use intelligent blank placement for machine control.
Max Cochius GmbH: A Reliable Partner in the thyssenkrupp Network
Max Cochius GmbH, as part of thyssenkrupp Materials Services, is a subsidiary of thyssenkrupp Schulte GmbH. thyssenkrupp Schulte has been an independent materials partner for many decades, developing successful business solutions in Germany with its customers. The company stocks, supplies, and processes suitable materials from steel, stainless steel, and non-ferrous metals.
A broad range of flat products, profiles, and tubes meets diverse customer needs. Expert technical advice and comprehensive services complement thyssenkrupp Schulte’s profile. The company's commitment to “Move Industries for Generations” reflects both its ambition and a promise of sustainability to be a reliable partner for customers across various industries, today and in the future.
