Universal Decoder Connects and Collects Real-Time Shop Floor CNC Machine Data

In Booth E-133354, WireFreeCNC, a division of Macdac Engineering, Inc. (Somers, CT) will unveil a significant new system in the drive towards seamless factory connectivity: the simple, yet revolutionary, Excellerant API provides small to large manufacturers with the ability to connect every CNC machine tool controller, no matter the brand, allowing them to monitor and manage each machine’s data in real-time and send that data to the company MES and/or ERP systems. “This is a fundamental link that’s been missing to simplify data driven manufacturing at the shop floor level,” says Christopher Levesque, the chief executive officer of WireFreeCNC. “It’s been a source of frustration at even the most sophisticated manufacturing companies in applying the latest concepts in Industry 4.0: there hasn’t been a universal decoder to connect and capture CNC machine data as it happens. Excellerant API fills this crucial gap.”

Levesque notes how Excellerant API builds on MTConnect, FANUC Focas, OPC-UA, Haas MNET Q-Codes, and other machine control connecting protocols, as well as legacy CNC machines, allowing shops to link across systems while substantially expanding and customizing the information they receive. Although some control systems offer the ability to link to their same brand, manufacturers typically have a variety of different control systems and a combination of older and newer machines that require a more universal system. Excellerant API allows shops to keep all of their current systems, including upstream programs such as ERP and MES. Recognizing that systems are only effective when people are inclined to use them, Excellerant API is designed for ease of use across work groups and operational levels. This is achieved through a simple and elegant graphical user interface, clear and logical functionality, and an array of convenient output types.

Machine operators can communicate problems, request assistance, and report progress at the touch of a button.  Supervisors and managers can assess cycle time, downtime, and process status by job, machine type, operator, and a host of other useful dimensions. Executives now can run reports in real-time, with continuous and immediate feeds from machine controllers through to the ERP level. This, in turn, allows for timely assessments of progress, capacity, and bottlenecks, and fuels more accurate forecasts and dynamic scheduling. The Excellerant API package is currently available and consists of a software license and proven, easy-to-install hardware connecting to each machine controller.

“Companies have been investing significantly in computerized management systems, especially over the last five years,” added John Carpenter, the president of WireFreeCNC. “The last thing they want to do is have to start from the beginning with something new. Our system fits seamlessly into whatever they are using and provides the basic and vital information direct from each machine tool that allows their existing systems to really work for them, furnishing the critical insight that is necessary to drive superior productivity and profitability.”

Macdac Engineering Inc., 27 Quality Avenue, Somers, CT 06071, 860-749-5544, Fax: 860-749-5373, www.macdac.com.