Advanced MES Connected Factory Machine Interface Unit

Advanced MES Connected Factory Machine Interface Unit | Epicor Kinetic

The concept of a “Smart Factory” has become a reality for manufacturers. In today’s Industry 4.0 world we

The concept of a “Smart Factory” has become a reality for manufacturers. In today’s Industry 4.0 world we must have a system that can capture more information, faster. With the Epicor Kinetic Advanced MES Machine Interface Unit (MIU), you can collect machine and process data in real time and connect to virtually any machine, without having to rely on equipment that is OPC compliant.

Benefits of the Epicor Kinetic Advanced MES Machine Interface Unit

The Advanced MES Connected Factory Machine Interface Unit (CF-MIU) is an industrial-strength data collection device conceived, developed, and manufactured by Epicor, and was designed along the lines of a SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) system. The term SCADA generally refers to a system that monitors machines, groups of machines, or large cells of manufacturing equipment.

Much of the control is performed automatically by the MIU, however, there are host control functions that permit overriding this autonomous control through supervisory actions or intervention. For example, the MIU can control the output reject chute based on various conditions and processes. Other benefits include:

  • Continues to collect data during network outages
  • Connects to any machine
  • Control your machine when there are process violations detected
  • Sample at 2000 per second

The MIU is ensuring that every part is manufactured according to engineering specs provided at the host. Its main purpose is to collect production and process information from the manufacturing machine, store, and transmit that data in real-time to the server computer.

The MIU can interface with non-OPC PLCs on the factory floor as well as read its own internal set of analog and digital inputs. The data acquisition begins here through meter readings, level indicators, pressure and temperature status readings, etc., which are then forwarded to the SCADA engine on the MIU. Data is then compiled, and formatted, various reduction analysis equations are executed, and outputs are engaged if needed. In real-time, the operator can make supervisory decisions to adjust or override normal processes and procedural functions.

Advanced MES Connected Factory Machine Interface Unit Technology

The new CF-MIU takes advantage of the latest technology in computer hardware design and offers advancements from almost every standpoint that allow you to connect your factory floor like never before. Instead of soldering input boards onto the motherboard, the new MIU uses plug-n-play input boards that allow the MIU to grow as your needs change. Any interruption in network service is covered by a much larger cache that takes us from storing hours of data to days. 2 USB ports are available for remote network connections such as for a mouse or a keyboard.

About Encompass Solutions

Encompass Solutions is a business and software consulting firm that specializes in ERP systems, EDI, and Managed Services support for Manufacturers. Serving small and medium-sized businesses since 2001, Encompass modernizes operations and automates processes for hundreds of customers across the globe. Whether undertaking full-scale implementation, integration, or renovation of existing systems, Encompass provides a specialized approach to every client’s needs. By identifying customer requirements and addressing them with the right solutions, we ensure our clients are equipped to match the pace of the Industry.

Sean Balogh

About Sean Balogh

A marketing professional working hard to deliver relevant and engaging content to audiences in education, technology, and manufacturing.