GERMANY –   Artificial intelligence is no longer a concept of the future—it is already transforming skilled trades. The Altendorf Group, a global leader in format circular saws and digitally networked manufacturing solutions, is participating as an industry partner in the new exhibition “Getting to grips with AI. Shaping the future.” at the University of Applied Sciences for Small and Medium-Sized Businesses (FHM) in Bielefeld, Germany.

The exhibition, part of the KIDiHA (Artificial Intelligence and Digital Offensive for Skilled Trades in North Rhine-Westphalia, NRW) research project, was inaugurated by NRW Minister of Science Ina Brandes. It showcases how AI can make operations more efficient, safer, and more sustainable — from intelligent data analysis to automated machine control.

As an industry partner, Altendorf demonstrates its AI-supported safety innovation Hand Guard, which detects risky hand movements in real time and automatically lowers the saw blade within milliseconds to prevent accidents. “Our technology helps protect people, machines, and materials — that’s AI in action in the skilled trades,” said Ansgar von Garrel, Head of Marketing at the Altendorf Group.

A clear example comes from the Müthing joinery in Billerbeck, where Hand Guard is used daily, significantly improving safety and trust among employees. The team highlights the system’s ability to prevent incidents and the peace of mind it brings to the workplace.

Altendorf’s goal in participating is to make access to AI technology simple and practical. “We want to show that AI is not an abstract concept but a tangible tool for everyday work and training,” added von Garrel.

The exhibition, also showcased at the State Parliament in Düsseldorf under the title “Zukunft.Handwerk.NRW , will become a traveling display, bringing hands-on examples of AI applications — from digital assistants to intelligent sales tools — closer to companies, apprentices, and training institutions.

Photo: Opening of the exhibition by NRW Minister of Science Ina Brandes.