Digitalization is not stopping at the hospitality sector: networking, management and monitoring of kitchen equipment using digital aids is the future. HOBART, a world market leader in commercial warewashing, is taking a big step towards the kitchen of tomorrow with the launch of the new SmartConnect app.
Offenburg – HOBART SmartConnect is available now. The app supersedes the previous WASHSMART app which the warewashing manufacturer from Offenburg had presented in 2017. Improved graphics and numerous new features make the new application even more interesting for anyone working in the hospitality sector.
In the future, kitchen managers will be able to operate all their HOBART machines in the warewashing and cooking areas with the new SmartConnect app. It does not matter if they are at the same site or in different locations. All relevant data is available in real time at all hours and can be used for controlling or hygiene documentation, for example. In addition, the app warns users of any errors so they can intervene immediately and avoid downtimes. "Networking is the future. The new SmartConnect app makes it even easier for management and kitchen staff to apply the technology efficiently and economically," says Manfred Kohler, Vice President Sales and Manufacturing. It is possible to use the web version of the application if you do not have a smartphone.
Graphics provide a quick overview
An analysis of the following parameters can be displayed in graphics:
- Machine operation (overall daily machine operation)
- Hygiene reports in accordance with HACCP (emptying, filling, descaling and other cycles which are used to clean the machine, as well as temperatures)
- Consumption (check of the water, energy and chemicals consumption)
- Operating costs (water, energy and chemicals)
Convenient remote operation
Would you like to start the machine even before the shift begins? No problem: users can actively manage the machines with SmartConnect. The machine can be put into operation with the click of a button using the autostart function without anyone near the device. This means it is ready for use as soon as it is needed. The detergent dosage can also be easily set and regulated with just a click in the app menu.
Direct intervention in case of faults
HOBART SmartConnect not only displays error codes and sends out warnings in real time, but also provides illustrated solutions and the option of contacting HOBART support or the specialist dealer directly. Problems then get resolved in the quickest way possible and machine downtimes are avoided. Previous rectified faults and warning messages can be viewed at any time using the event log. This facilitates complete documentation of the events for the hygiene report.
Simple setup at the push of a button
Thanks to the mobile connection wizard, networking between the kitchen equipment and the app using WiFi is as easy as ABC. Users follow illustrated operating instructions on a smartphone, and the connection is set up automatically. This means you no longer need to enter the WiFi password or the service set identifier (SSID) directly at the machine.
Outlook: connecting all ITW devices
Other kitchen equipment manufacturers, who like HOBART are part of the ITW group, will also introduce the option of managing their devices via an app in the near future. This means that within the next year, it will be possible to manage machines from other brands using HOBART SmartConnect.