Inside The Smart Factory Revolution: How UWB Redefines Manufacturing Efficiency

Trumpf, a German manufacturing leader known for precision tools and laser cutting systems, has redefined its operations through smart manufacturing powered by ultra-wideband (UWB) location technology. In collaboration with Qorvo and omlox, Trumpf deployed real-time location systems (RTLS) at sites in Germany, Austria, and the U.S., achieving major productivity gains, improved on-time delivery, and reduced failure rates in sheet metal production.

The heart of this transformation lies in Qorvo’s 3000-series UWB chipsets, which outperform traditional RFID or Wi-Fi in complex, reflective environments. UWB provides real-time, high-precision 2D and 3D tracking—essential for reaching higher levels of Industry 4.0 maturity. With the omlox open standard, Trumpf ensured interoperability across devices, enabling a scalable ecosystem where components from multiple vendors work together.

Strategically placed tags and sensors on tools, equipment, operators, and autonomous transport systems enabled advanced use cases like AR-guided workflows, digital twin integration, and real-time production planning. Trumpf’s phased deployment approach ensured adaptability while future-proofing its smart factories.

Trumpf didn’t just adopt omlox—they helped create it, setting the stage for cross-industry innovation. Their partnership with Qorvo was marked by co-development and trial-and-error experimentation, culminating in the highly reliable omlox Air 8 system.

According to Trumpf Tracking CEO Eberhard Wahl, UWB is no longer optional—it’s a competitive necessity for future manufacturing. Trumpf’s journey proves that early investment in UWB and open standards like omlox can deliver scalable, measurable ROI and true Industry 4.0 readiness.