New app optimises sheet metalworking processes

Called ByCockpit, it monitors all processes taking place within its laser cutting machines, press brakes and waterjet cutting machines in real time. The software fits with the digital networking requirements of Industry 4.0, evaluating the collected data and generating status reports, allowing factory output to be optimised.

During its development, Bystronic’s IT specialists asked a number of companies how they retrieve information from their sheet metalworking machines to analyse and improve production. Most said that extracting data and subsequently translating it into usable information is very time consuming. Often, results were only available infrequently, for example at the end of the month or even once per quarter, rendering the information virtually useless for process optimisation.

Running on a laptop, smartphone or tablet, ByCockpit generates reports while the machines are producing parts, providing immediate feedback so that action can be taken, if necessary. One report is the ‘sunburst’ view, which displays the status of the factory at a glance. Green bars indicate machines that are currently in operation, while a red bar signifies idle time. A blue bar denotes machines that are connected to an assembly line.

A tap on the screen switches the app from the sunburst view to, for example, the cutting overview for a ByStar Fiber. Six windows open to provide information about the laser cutting process. The status window shows the laser power output in kilowatts, the total operating hours of the machine and whether maintenance is due.

The performance window quantifies how efficiently the ByStar Fiber’s production potential is being utilised, making it easy to see if processes are not running optimally. Maybe there were idle times, the target number of parts was not produced in the scheduled time, or the parts did not meet the required quality standard. If so, other windows show where the problem lies.

The material performance window shows how many usable parts have been cut using the ByStar Fiber and the amount of waste. The machine availability window breaks down the machine’s run times, idle times and changeover times. If idle times are too long, another window provides information about the cause.

All Bystronic’s latest generation machines are ready to be connected to ByCockpit.

Bystronic www.bystronic.com