INDUSTRY
Software and AI for Mechanical and Plant Engineering
Software and AI for Mechanical and Plant Engineering
torck develops software for machine and plant manufacturers and their customers, ranging from user interfaces and data platforms to predictive maintenance. torck is based in Maxhütte-Haidhof near Regensburg. We also collect machine data from existing systems, build analytics on that data, and apply AI where its benefits can be demonstrated.
How can machine data from existing systems be put to use?
How can machine data from existing systems be put to use?
First, we determine what data the system already provides and which sensors are missing. During the retrofit, we upgrade existing machines instead of replacing them. The data flow extends from the sensor through a local server to the dashboard.
MACHINE SPECIFICATIONS AND RETROFIT
How do you retrofit existing systems?
From the sensor on the existing machine to the data platform. Which protocols are appropriate and which data must be stored depends on the system. Learn more: Collect machine data across 3 levels, all the way to the dashboard and Retrofit Instead of Buying New.
PREDICTIVE MAINTENANCE
What Does Predictive Maintenance Do?
Predictive maintenance detects anomalies before a machine breaks down. Whether it’s worth implementing depends on the costs of unplanned downtime. Here’s an explanation of when thresholds and trends are sufficient and when a model is necessary: AI Forecasts and Predictive Maintenance: What It Can and Cannot Do.
DIGITAL TWIN
What role does a digital twin play in manufacturing?
The story Digital Twin for Manufacturing: Siemens Plant Simulation is on torck.io. The digital twin turns complex material flows into usable insights and enables real-time monitoring and control of automotive production.
REGULATORY FRAMEWORK
What rules apply to connected machines?
The Cyber Resilience Act (Regulation (EU) 2024/2847) governs the reporting of exploited vulnerabilities in connected products. The reporting requirement has been in effect since September 11, 2026, and the initial report must be submitted within 24 hours. Details: CRA Reporting Requirement. The EU Data Act (Regulation (EU) 2023/2854) grants users of connected devices access to the data generated by those devices. The “Access by Design” requirement takes effect in September 2026. Details: EU Data Act: Machine Data. As of October 25, 2026.
This article refers to laws and regulations to put technical decisions in context. It is not legal advice. Whether and how a rule applies to your company is a question for your legal department or a law firm.
Legacy Modernization: Assess Legacy Systems First
Classify legacy systems according to the 6R model
The 6R model distinguishes between decommissioning, migration, adaptation, refactoring, rebuilding, and replacement. The appropriate approach depends on business value and technical condition. Learn more at Legacy Modernization.
Refactoring When the Code Is Stable
If the code is stable but difficult to maintain, we restructure it. The functionality remains the same. When the business value is high, this usually takes less time and costs less than building a new system from scratch.
New construction or replacement as a final step
If the architecture can no longer be expanded or if manufacturer support and developers are no longer available, building a new system or replacing the existing one may be necessary. We plan for parallel operation from the very beginning.
Software Operations After Go-Live
Upon request, we can take over operations with defined response times. Alternatively, we can hand over the software to your team along with the documentation. You can make this decision at go-live, depending on your team’s capacity.
What should you do if a project goes off the rails?
When key positions are vacant or a project is stalled, we step in on a temporary basis as an interim CTO, project manager, or lead developer. Learn more at Interim CTO & Project Rescue.
Where torck works
torck is based in Maxhütte-Haidhof near Regensburg. Other locations include Vienna and Rabat. For more information about working from Morocco, visit Nearshore Development.
Frequently Asked Questions About Software in Mechanical Engineering
That depends on the control system, the protocols, and the number of data points. General estimates aren't very helpful. We first assess the system and then provide a framework for the pilot project and subsequent expansion. A pilot project on a single machine quickly reveals which data points are worthwhile.
It’s especially worth getting started in situations where unplanned downtime is costly. An analysis of existing machine data will reveal whether thresholds and trends are sufficient or if a model is necessary. We explain the process and its limitations in our article on predictive maintenance.
The Cyber Resilience Act (CRA) and the EU Data Act are particularly relevant for connected machines. The CRA has governed reporting of exploited vulnerabilities since September 11, 2026, while the Data Act governs access to machine data. This article lists laws and regulations to help contextualize technical decisions. It does not constitute legal advice. Please consult your legal department or a law firm to determine whether and how a regulation applies to your company.
Yes, upon request. We’ll handle operations with defined response times, monitoring, and ongoing development. Alternatively, we’ll hand over the software, complete with documentation, to your team. You’ll make the decision at go-live, depending on your team’s capacity.
CONTACT
Let's talk about your plant.
Let's talk about your plant.
Tell us about your machines and your project. We’ll be honest with you about whether and how we can help. An initial consultation is usually scheduled within a few days, with no obligation.