Digital solutions for equipment optimization are widespread across the market, proliferating across multiple industries. However, one thing separates many of these digital platforms - how smoothly a solution can coordinate and accept multiple brands/types of equipment, machines and legacy systems in one place and be able to dynamically scale as the factory transforms.
So, when it comes to selecting and implementing manufacturing production software, machine integration capabilities are critical. In short, it is the software's ability to communicate with and control the various machines and equipment used in the manufacturing process in an easy and end user self-configurable way.
Strong machine integration capabilities enable seamless communication and data exchange between software and machines, providing both real-time tracking and control of the manufacturing process. As manual data entry (which are highly error-prone processes) is eliminated, it can significantly improve the efficiency and accuracy of the manufacturing process. This is an exercise on both ends, making sure the equipment is ready for integration at the stage of purchase (or upgrading/sensorizing post purchase) in addition to selecting and leveraging the right flexible software solution to integrate, visualize, and control the equipment.
Remotely monitoring and controlling production processes is a significant advantage of machine integration. This is especially useful with multiple machines and/or sites or when production must be adjusted in real time due to changing demands or other requests. With the right software, it is possible to make changes to the manufacturing process without physically being present at the machine. This not only helps dramatically improve productivity, but enables workers traditionally stationed at these machines to focus on more high value output.
Tracking and analyzing production data is another advantage of machine integration. Data on production output, machine performance, and other metrics can be collected by directly integrating with the controller or reading off of data output from the devices/systems that the machines run on. This information can be used to simultaneously identify areas for improvement, optimize production processes, and anticipate potential problems.
At Arcstone, we build our digital manufacturing solutions with integrating manufacturing production software with machines, equipment and systems as one of our top objectives. This is critical to optimizing the production process and increasing efficiency. Companies that can effectively use machine integration capabilities will be better equipped to adapt to changing market conditions and customer needs in the long run, making them more competitive.
For more information on our Machine Integration capabilities or our other solutions, you may contact us or drop us an email at contact@arcstone.co
Comments