Dunkermotoren: Digitization of Production Support Test Automation

The system needed to handle the control and testing of motors, encoders, and brakes while bringing together devices such as oscilloscopes, power supplies, and label printers. At the same time, the software had to remain modular and easy to extend, so it can be deployed across new test centers. This flexibility is essential as both motor technologies and testing requirements continue to evolve.

Rather than starting with a detailed requirements specification, Dunkermotoren chose an agile approach. The development team in Bonndorf had limited experience with Scrum and was already involved in active projects. To support the introduction of agile methods and the parallel development effort, Dunkermotoren partnered with M&M Software.
 

We started by introducing Scrum in the development department and training Dunkermotoren’s employees. An M&M Software consultant defined the roles and worked closely with the team on site. Within a short time, the team was able to apply the method to additional internal projects.

Developing the test and inspection software meant working with complex machines and test systems. Different interfaces, components, and devices had to be connected reliably. To build a modular and future-ready architecture, we reviewed existing configuration files and aligned them with the customer. This revealed that systems were not fully interconnected and that test plans and procedures needed to be handled as XML files.

We also implemented topics such as calibration of measurement systems as well as the evaluation and verification of results in an agile way.

To make configuration and operation easier, we developed an intuitive user interface together with the customer. M&M Software supported the architecture and design process with dedicated UI experts and provided early design concepts. This helped turn the solution into a production-ready system.

The software continues to evolve. New features are added step by step to integrate additional components, systems, and machines.

» Strategy: Scrum coaching, architecture consulting, customer experience and design
» Develop: Development of test and inspection software, agile software development
» Lifecycle Services: DevOps, maintenance, and change management

With M&M Software, Dunkermotoren introduced an agile development process quickly and alongside an ongoing project. This tailored setup made it easier for the team to understand Scrum and apply it in future projects.

Bringing M&M Software in early ensured that the right expertise was available from the start. Requirements from different departments could be implemented directly, which reduced coordination effort and sped up delivery and commissioning.

In daily use, Dunkermotoren benefits from a system that is easy to operate and flexible to configure. Testing equipment can now be calibrated in-house without relying on external providers.

The long-standing collaboration reflects a strong and reliable partnership. M&M Software supports Dunkermotoren in further developing its test software as well as IIoT and edge solutions.

Project Process:

• Agile software development using Scrum
• Tailored Scrum coaching for Dunkermotoren
• Close collaboration through regular on-site work

Backend Technologies:

• C#
• ASP.NET
• WPF
• WCF

Frontend Technologies:

• WPF
• Angular

Interfaces:

• OPC-UA
• Ethernet/IP