SME Day 2026: Müller and Empolis Showcase AI for Machining

Mathias Schmidt, managing director of Müller Präzisionswerkzeuge, and Jens Henninger of Empolis spoke about the use of transferable artificial intelligence in machining during the “AI Applications in Production” session at the 2026 SME Day. The collaborative project “Mastering Machining Processes through Transferable Artificial Intelligence — A Foundation for Process Improvements and New Business Models,” or TransKI for short, investigated how machine learning models can be transferred to machining processes with as little effort as possible. Müller Präzisionswerkzeuge coordinated the project and contributed its expertise in tools and industrial machining processes. Empolis was responsible, among other things, for data preparation, the development of the ML models and the assistance system, as well as the adaptation of the models to different use cases. Other participants included Bosch, botek Präzisionsbohrtechnik, Paul Horn, the RPTU Kaiserslautern-Landau, and the University of Stuttgart.

Artificial Intelligence for Machining

In the project, the partners developed models for predicting the wear of drilling and milling tools, as well as for detecting anomalies during the machining process. The models were based, among other things, on control data such as spindle and axis currents, as well as information from retrofittable sensors. The models were integrated into a digital assistance system for tool management. This system processes the data from the machining process and is designed to help employees determine the right time to change a tool. “In machining, tools must be used reliably without replacing them prematurely as a precaution. TransKI demonstrates how machine data and transferable ML models can make the condition of tools more transparent and support employees in making this decision. Together with Empolis, we were able to demonstrate at the SME Day what has emerged from the combination of manufacturing knowledge and AI expertise,” explains Mathias Schmidt, Managing Director of Müller Präzisionswerkzeuge.