Reduce downtime and create flexible factories

1394-SJT22-A The main advantage of using network data is to help understand the causes of machine failures and find solutions to reduce downtime. This includes using more robust components or finding alternative configuration solutions.

1394-SJT22-A A common machine network connection problem is a mechanical failure of the physical medium, such as a broken cable or a leak of electricity. This kind of failure is especially common in rotating systems using slip rings. As a contact part, the slip ring will wear and fail over time, increasing the need for maintenance. In addition, the frequent use of strong detergents can also damage data cables and connectors.

1394-SJT22-A In response to these problems, people are turning to wireless technology to connect machines to the network. Wireless connection technology eliminates cables and slip rings, reducing mechanical failures. It also increases the modularity of the machines, making the factory configuration more flexible. For example, the dough mixer of the Swedish bread maker Ostras brod uses this technology. They installed wireless devices on the top of the roaster and on the control cabinet, which not only reduced wiring costs, but also eliminated potential points of failure, thereby extending the uptime of the machine.

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1394-SJT22-A Reduce factory production risks and ensure worker safety

1394-SJT22-A According to the U.S. Department of Labor’s OSHA incident data, the most common violations related to automated machines include locking/listing, machine protection, and electrical safety. In food and beverage factories, ensuring worker safety is of Paramount importance.

1394-SJT22-A One way to mitigate these security risks is to provide machine data so that machine owners can know in real time when a device is in an unsafe state and take protective measures accordingly. The data also helps users more easily predict major failures and correct them before worker safety is compromised. The edge gateway plays a key role in this process, providing data to multiple computing platforms.

The most effective way to protect workers is to reduce their physical interaction with automated machines. Technologies that enable this include local connections outside the machine using wireless networks and the use of remote access gateways that enable maintenance personnel to make software management and changes to the machine anytime, anywhere.