Remote FATs for GEA Centrifuges

Before we start with the actual Remote FAT, we will provide you with the required documentation electronically in advance so that you can already familiarize yourself with it.
In order to secure the personal data on both sides, you will addionally receive a document to be signed, which briefly and clearly explains the framework of the Remote FAT.

In addition, we invite you to a test session in advance to make sure that the connection and dial-up work properly and to give you a first impression of the technical processes.

During the Remote FAT, the technically responsible GEA employees guide you through the entire process and use headsets to ensure a continuous exchange of information – whether with you in front of the screen or on the test bench at your centrifuge.

We use state-of-the-art equipment to provide you with the highest level of quality even remotely: a document camera is used to review and discuss physical documents in detail. 

We film the centrifuge on the test bay using either a stabilized mobile camera or our special GEA Remote Eye Wear goggles. The latter have an integrated high-resolution camera and reliable microphone technology and give the GEA employees even more freedom of movement, so that they can perform hand movements at the same time, for example, or point more specifically to important areas.

If required, parallel sessions can be held to test process, automation and documentation.

• Timely implementation of your projects
  We ensure that your business and production are fully on track.

• Saving travel costs, resources and time
  Not only do you save travel time and costs, you are also more flexible in terms of time and can devote the time saved to other value-adding activities.

• Variable options for participation in the Remote FAT session 
  You can dial in from your PC as well as from a tablet or smartphone.

How does the video call work?
In sufficient time prior to the Remote FAT you will receive an invitation with your personal dial-in link. In addition, we will invite you to a test session in advance, if required, so that you can familiarize yourself with the procedure and we can check together whether the technical requirements are met.

What can I see during the Remote FAT session?
Basically, all the tests that are possible during a regular face-to-face FAT can be shown. A remotely conducted FAT does not change the range of possible tests.

Both completeness checks on the scope of delivery including component tests as well as functional tests such as noise or vibration measurement or even process steps can also be reproduced in parallel with the documentation. Tests on the automation section can also be shown.

How do you ensure the security of my data?
We use Microsoft Teams as a secure, digital collaboration tool. All FAT documents are stored on our GEA-internal servers with restricted access. Larger documents are made available via a secure file sharing service.

Which documentation will I receive after completing the Remote FAT?
After completion, you will receive a report which contains all the comments that were agreed during the Remote FAT in written form. Furthermore, all participants are listed. The FAT report is finalized by the delivery release.

Is it possible to get a recording of the Remote FAT?
Recordings are possible according to individual agreement.

Has GEA already gained experience with Remote FATs for centrifuges?
We have been using Remote FATs since the beginning of 2020 and have successfully conducted various FATs with well-known customers from different industries since, with procedures taking from a few hours to several days. The feedback from our customers on the “smart” way of conducting FATs has been very positive throughout.