Application: Communicate machine status information to other devices
 
Challenges: Real-time data collection from multiple machines on a busy factory floor
Real-time monitoring of machine status allows supervisors to address any issues as they arise, minimizing machine downtime and potentially resolving small issues before they become big problems. Providing clear indication of status at a machine is a necessary requirement. Communicating that status information from a machine to other devices makes it possible for personnel to monitor multiple machines on a factory floor from a convenient location.
 
Solution: Wireless Tower Lights and a Wireless Controller (avaiable through our dedicated hardware bundles)
The wireless tower light combines high visibility indication with wireless communication, ideal for this type of application. With an extremely bright display it provides at-a-glance status indication, enabling staff to easily identify the condition of a machine on the floor. Wireless communication connects the light to other devices without the time and expense associated with lengthy cable runs. To disseminate machine status, or any additional information from the inputs, the twoer light communicates with a wireless controller. The controller distributes this information to any of a range of devices located throughout the facility, including a master light at the supervisor’s station or other indicator lights, a PLC or HMI, a laptop or a device installed on mobile equipment, and it can alert supervisors via text message or email. Critical status information is sent to where it is needed, allowing staff to respond quickly and appropriately.
 
Benefits: High-visibility local indication, reliable wireless network
Using the modular Tower Light with a wireless radio base improves machine monitoring and overall equipment effectiveness (OEE) by expanding available data beyond the local indication a standard tower light provides. Beyond local indication, each tower light can provide remote status of each light module, track the cumulative time ON for each light module, count the number of times each module transitions from the OFF to ON state, and count parts. This system provides the information necessary to react quickly to system changes and drive efficiency improvements based on data that was previously unavailable.