dawn Master Poster
Joined: 26 Jun 2004 Posts: 311 Location: Mishawaka, IN
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Posted: Wed Jun 07, 2006 11:00 am Post subject: How does Predator MDC gather data from the CNCs? |
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Manufacturing Data Collection and Machine Monitoring can collect data from the CNCs in various methods.
A) Code Based Collection - M & G Codes:
Using the current NC code that runs on the machine, the program can be modified to output strings via the serial port on the machine tool to trigger for example when cycle starts (CStart) and cycle ends(CEnd). Tool changes could also be noted when a new tool is selected.
B) Mechanical Based Collection - Hardware (microcontroller Adapter):
Using a microcontroller Adapter (PLC) to wire directly into the CNC control on various points, Feed Hold, Spindle Motor, Emergency Button, Status Lamp, could all be wired to tell the controller when an event occurs.
C) Human Based Collection - Operator Input
Using a bar code, PC interface or CNC control with various reason codes, will provide additional information why the CNC might have stopped. Various reasons can be selected from or even created from scratch. Downtime codes such as Tooling Delay, Material Defective, Lunch, Meeting are all possible reasons for downtime reasons. The options are unlimited.
Depending on the scope of the customer, data collection can be implemented to simply collect cycle start and end in a production shop. However, in a job shop type environment, if operators press FEED HOLD the cycle time would be skewed as therefore an microcontroller Adapter would help report on the reason why the cycle times are not accurate.
Remember you can only improve what you measure! _________________ Dawn Mitchell
Manufacturing Information Solutions
www.mis-group.com |
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