Multifunctional gateway unit, production system and method for operating a production system

A multifunctional gateway unit for connecting at least one apparatus, which is configured to be used for machining, handling or storing workpieces that include at least in portions of wood, wooden materials, or plastic, the multifunctional gateway unit comprising:

• at least one data interface for connecting the multifunctional gateway unit to a data server;
• at least one computing unit which comprises a central processing unit CPU and is configured to interchange data with the at least one data interface;
• at least one sensor interface which is configured to receive data from a sensor, which is associated with an apparatus, and to forward the data from the sensor to the at least one computing unit;
• and
• at least one output interface which is configured to receive data from the at least one computing unit and to forward the data from the at least one computing unit to at least one unit of the apparatus.