Data collection on the machine for production and ERP
LinkMachine is the hardware and software system designed to collect data directly in the department and transfer them to the ERP system in an automatic, reliable and traceable way.
What is on-board data collection?
On-machine data collection allows information to be acquired directly in production which serves the production, logistics, quality and management offices.
What data can you collect
- Quantities produced
- Cycle times and processing times
- Machine states and stopped
- Production orders
- Lots of raw material
- Scraps and reasons
- Operator badge and traceability
Because it's useful
In many companies, data is still written down on paper or manually reported to the office. This leads to delays, errors, wasted time and little visibility into actual production. With LinkMachine the data is detected at the source and made immediately available to the ERP system.
How LinkMachine works
LinkMachine reads machine signals, matches production information and sends everything to the ERP system with a simple, robust and scalable logic.
Machine signal acquisition
The system acquires cycles, cycles, states or events coming from PLC, CNC, stroke counter or cycle relay.
Order and material identification
The operator can identify order, batch or raw material via barcode or RFID.
Data processing
The panel associates the machine data with the real production context: order, lot, operator, quantity and times.
Sending to the ERP system
The gateway software transfers information to the ERP, updating order progress, quantities and inventory.
The panel and software in action
Some images of the LinkMachine panel, machine connections and software screens.
Connection also on new or legacy machines
LinkMachine was created to connect both recent systems and machines already in production.
Supported technologies
- Digital inputs
- Shot counter
- Cycle relay
- OPC UA
- Modbus TCP / RTU
- Siemens S7
- Fanuc FOCAS
Practical advantage
There is no need to replace existing machines. In many cases it is possible to bring Industry 4.0 logics even on dated systems, with a minimally invasive approach.
Advantages of on-machine data collection
Less papers
The data is collected directly in the department without paper sheets and manual transcriptions.
Fewer errors
The data is created digitally and reduces copying errors, forgetfulness and delays.
More control
Production, times, progress and batches can be consulted more quickly and consistently.
Updated inventory
The quantities produced can automatically update the ERP system and stocks.
Useful pages
Core Software
The LinkMachine engine: communication management, data collection and integration with databases and ERP.
Operator panel
Machine interface for operators: data entry, production progress and interaction with the system.