IoT functionality for the new Programat® furnaces from Ivoclar

With the introduction of its new series of Programat furnaces, Ivoclar has brought the Internet of Things (IoT) to the modern dental laboratory. The latest generation of press and ceramic furnaces feature smart IoT functionality, offering dental technicians comfort and reliability.

The Ivoclar group, one of the world's leading dental companies with a comprehensive range of products and system solutions for dental professionals, introduced a new generation of Programat furnaces in June 2021. With their uniquely innovative features, forward-looking enhancements and modern design, the press and ceramic furnaces have earned the approval of customers quickly. The market has especially welcomed the furnaces' progressive IoT functionality, which promotes effectiveness and efficiency in day-to-day laboratory work. The Internet of Things connects physical objects to the virtual world. Smart devices embedded in an IoT network capture important information without requiring human intervention and deliver statistical information to the user. As the new Programat series is equipped with IoT technology, users have the option to activate this function on their new furnace. An advantage of IoT functionality is ongoing device optimisation based on the evaluation of anonymised usage data. This means that technicians can expect consistently high-quality results and maximised efficiency from their second-generation ceramic and press furnaces.

Internet of Things: smart assistant for dental labs

Programat furnaces that are connected to the IoT network offer dental technicians additional advantages. For instance, IoT connectivity enables the Ivoclar support team to assess device-related data more easily and help customers more quickly.

By opening a user account, customers can tap into the full potential of IoT technology. They can subscribe to a free report to receive automated monthly usage statistics. These reports provide users with a variety of relevant information, including usage metrics (e.g. operating and firing hours), remaining service life of the heating component, vacuum quality and the date on which the furnace was last calibrated. A traffic light system indicates the level of urgency with which individual steps for maintenance and optimisation should be carried out.

Easy-to-read diagrams provide an overview of the furnace's utilisation measured in the number of firing processes and the proportional shares of the different types of materials used. By logging in to their customer account, dental technicians can easily manage their devices and services and directly clarify any questions they may have. All data that is transferred to the Ivoclar server is encrypted and protected from unauthorised access by third parties with the highest degree of security. This means that dental technicians can benefit from additional comfort and high operational safety when using their IoT embedded Programat furnace. Monthly reports keep them informed of the current state of their device.

Model variants and availability

The Programat ceramic furnace is the smart specialist for high-quality firing results. This furnace is available in three variations: P710 G2, P510 G2 and P310 G2. The Programat press furnace is the reliable partner for smart pressing processes. This model is offered in two variations: EP 5010 G2 and EP 3010 G2. All of the above model variants come equipped with advanced IoT functionality and have been available on the market since June 2021.