A new machine-cell controller software package from Mattec Corp. operates on standard personal computers, processing production data from one or more machines. The PC becomes a real-time user interface with machine performance data and allows operators to enter new data (on scrap and downtime reasons, for instance). Each PC running Mattec Cell Controller software can monitor up to 16 machines.
When the system is being used to monitor multiple machines in the cell, one button on the screen indicates which machine's data is currently being displayed. The color of the button indicates whether the machine is running within an acceptable processing range or if problems exist. When the button color is red (indicating problems), users can drill down into the process data to determine where the problem lies. Then, by again pressing that button on the touch screen (or by clicking it with a mouse), the user can open a list of all the machines being monitored and choose to view data on another machine. Mattec, Loveland, OH, USA; www.mattec.com
