Enhanced Remote Monitoring, Data Evaluation Platform Boosts Manufacturing Efficiency

Photo Credit: Heidenhain Corp.

In answer to requests from machine tool users, Heidenhain Corp. introduces version 1.4.0 of its StateMonitor software platform enabling remote monitoring and data evaluation during real-time manufacturing. First introduced in 2019, the company notes StateMonitor has become an important option with its TNC controls to digitally connect and evaluate machine tool data on company networks as part of the Industry 4.0 initiative to boost efficiencies. Connected devices could include CNC control systems of varying brands as well as PCs and web-based mobile devices such as tablets or smartphones.

Designed to highlight data usage and encourage time-saving workflow methods using clear-cut charts and graphs, StateMonitor version 1.4.0 offers several new features. One often requested and now available with the updated platform is the ability to monitor tools within a connected machine. According to Heidenhain, this now allows users to collect current tool usage data and avoid unnecessary costs due to premature tool replacement. The software can now also view countdowns for any programs running.

Additional functions include the ability to view monitored signals on the Machine Status page, as well as String Signal data. Also, users are able to customize the machine status by adding additional ones, or changing to their preferences when the machine is considered “Productive.”

Further, an interested customer now has the option to purchase a single machine license, with the ability to add on the more common five-machine license (StateMonitor Option 1) later if desired. The StateMonitor Single Machine license contains the “OPC UA Interface” so machines with third-party CNCs can be connected as well.

The StateMonitor Software Maintenance and Support plan offering enables customers the ability to easily upgrade the software each time a new release is available, and a new direct international email support line is also available for highly technical or development questions at digitalshopfloor@heidenhain.de.