Critical Manufacturing unveils the latest version of Critical Manufacturing MES, V6, which introduces am equipment integration module, Connect IoT. The module is designed to simplify the integration of all devices, equipment and the Internet of Things (IoT). Using V6 Connect IoT reduces the time and cost needed for companies to reap the benefits of smart technologies and Industry 4.0 manufacturing models. The V6 version also extends the advanced graphical user interface (GUI) to deliver configure-to-task, platform-agnostic mobility to all operator, supervisor and maintenance transactions, plus an enhanced scheduling module.
Connect IoT for Industry 4.0 enables fast, easy integration of both standard equipment interfaces and new IoT devices into a distributed, de-centralized architecture on which to build an autonomous production network. It is a lightweight, low footprint solution with cross-platform (Windows, Mac OS, Linux) and multi-architecture (ARM, x64 or x86 processors) support. The module has out-of-the-box support for Low Energy Bluetooth, SECS/GEM, OPC UA and MQTT protocols.
Other features include a drag-and-drop logic interface, with no need for coding. The system automatically abstracts workflows from specific drivers and users can implement re-usable, extensible workflow elements with complex logic. The powerful visual debugging screens also incorporate simulators for automation workflows using real machine values to reduce engineering times. Once configured, the module provides one-click deployment. This V6 integrated device management solution allows selective or mass deployment options with rollback possibility.
Version 6 includes other features such as extending a system’s HTML5 mobile-ready GUI to every operation on the production line for operators, supervisors and maintenance technicians. The scheduling module also has the new HTML5 GUI, and provides two new modes for fast scheduling and planning including, exploded bills of material (BOMs) and maximum material size. It also has added support for labor and durables scheduling. For more information, visit Critical Manufacturing.