Interoperability
The networked future of mechanical and plant engineering
Interoperability is a key pillar of efficient digital transformation and the long-term positioning of every company in the global market, as information can only be shared and utilised easily, securely and at scale through interoperably designed value chains and data ecosystems.
It is particularly important to understand the topic holistically and to identify and implement the right strategy and technologies for the respective company. The VDMA is the central point of contact and is involved in numerous interoperability solutions, such as the development of OPC UA Companion Specifications for the interoperable, standardised transfer of production data.
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The 3. Interoperability Summit, sponsored by ECLASS, GS1 Germany, Prostep ivip, and VDMA Machine Information Interoperability, will take place on May, 7, 2026 at the Telekom Conference Center in Bonn.
The development of the Digital Product Passport (DPP) is progressing rapidly, but the regulatory requirements and practical implementation are still unclear, especially for small and medium-sized companies. A
Industrial production is under increasing competitive pressure.
From May 28 to 31, 2025, the manufacturing world will gather in Istanbul for WIN EURASIA, one of the leading industrial trade fairs in the Eurasian region.
The production of modern batteries requires complex production lines and therefore presents companies with considerable challenges in production.
At the bauma trade fair in Munich, a groundbreaking demonstrator unveiled the future of mining operations through the integration of the OPC UA Companion Specifications: The OPC 40560 series provides standardized OPC UA information models for mining.
How can digital technologies and interoperability make mining more efficient and sustainable?
In this interview, Rene Hirschmugl reveals the importance of interoperability in the industry and why he sees OPC UA Companion Specifications as a great opportunity.
A consortium of organizations has published a groundbreaking specification for interoperable and efficient energy management in industrial automation and process automation.
The glass industry is undergoing a transformation: Digital connectivity, automation, and data-driven process optimization are no longer future concepts but key factors for competitiveness and efficiency.
This year, the VDMA Technical Working Group (AKT) once again demonstrated how crucial the exchange of ideas within the agricultural machinery industry is.
VDMA and T-Systems, together with the umati initiative, are presenting the first global Manufacturing-X solution with open standards for machine data at this year's Hannover Messe.
The VDMA Mining & Minerals OPC UA demonstrator at bauma 2025 - a fascinating example of how modern communication technologies can shape the future of mining.
The United States is expanding its manufacturing capabilities by investing in a network of institutes, each specializing in a specific area, for example technology or workforce development.
At Hannover Messe (31 March to 4 April 2025), the umati initiative will once again be represented with its own stand in Hall 9, Stand F25.
Here you will find a detailed description of the VDA 5050 communication interface with a detailed example of communication between a master controller and a mobile robot.
Ensure safety and interoperability
Imparting technical knowledge – Experts advise you individually
With the aim of establishing an open standard for optical sorters, a kick-off meeting was held at VDMA Frankfurt on November 26, 2024.
Interoperability standards and federated data space structures play a crucial role in the context of digital transformation and Industry 4.0. The VDMA and its Brazilian partners organized a roadshow in Brazil on this topic.
2024 was an eventful and successful year for the MII department. We achieved important milestones in various areas with and for our members.
Traditionally, simulations of transmission systems are based on idealized models that are based on nominal values.
The OPC UA standard has become an integral part of modern sheet metal production. The universal interface technology enables your machines to communicate securely and in a standardized way with connected IT systems.
Events & Trade fairs
Artificial Intelligence and Interoperability are two key technologies that are set to shape the future of digitalization and automation of the mechanical engineering industry. In this Connect2Discover@VDMA event, we would like to show the "connection" between these two topics and report on other VDMA services in this area.
The seamless exchange of data across manufacturers, technologies, and industries is the foundation for innovation, efficiency, and long-term competitiveness. Take the opportunity to present your latest findings. Submit your contribution by 30 September 2025.
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