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SCM Group has received the 2026 SMAU Innovation Award for an artificial intelligence-based process configurator designed to simplify surface finishing operations and improve manufacturing efficiency.
Presented November 4 at the 20th edition of SMAU in Milan, Italy, the award recognizes SCM's development of a digital assistant integrated into its DMC sanding machines for wood and metal processing.
The technology draws on decades of SCM's surface finishing expertise, combining historical processing data and scientific testing into a proprietary algorithm that helps operators identify appropriate machining parameters. The system also assists SCM sales teams in configuring equipment to meet specific production requirements.
The innovation addresses a growing challenge for manufacturers: the shortage of skilled technical personnel capable of managing increasingly sophisticated production equipment.
According to SCM, the configurator is designed to reduce machine setup times and simplify the selection of processing parameters, with estimated time savings of up to 20 percent in the applications evaluated.
“Adopting this configurator brings operational and economic benefits across the entire value chain,” said Alessandro Caramia, product manager and business developer at SCM. “The configurator is designed to reduce setup times and make it easier to set processing parameters, with estimated time savings of up to 20 percent in the applications considered.”
AI Technology Designed to Evolve With Production Needs
Unlike a static database, SCM's AI-based configurator is designed to evolve as new applications are tested under real-world production conditions. Each new application will expand the system's knowledge base, allowing the company to refine processing recommendations and support a broader range of manufacturing requirements.
Beyond assisting machine operators, the technology also supports equipment configuration during the sales and quotation process. SCM says the system can provide more accurate estimates of processing times, production costs and productivity, helping manufacturers evaluate equipment configurations before investing.
The company also sees opportunities to develop future software update services around the technology.
The SMAU Innovation Award was accepted by Bruno Di Napoli, business unit manager of SCM's surface treatment solutions, and Sara Iaconianni, SCM Group's scouting, idea management and idea generation manager.
The development reflects the expanding role of AI and digital assistance in woodworking and surface finishing equipment, particularly as manufacturers seek ways to improve operational efficiency and address workforce skills gaps.
For more information, visit SCM Group.
