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Data Aggregation for Discrete Equipment

Year: 2023


Presenter Name: Damon Gale

Description
Industry 4.0 is a new initiative in manufacturing to apply modern, cutting-edge technologies on the manufacturing floor with the goal of accessing real-time data monitoring, gain performance insights, facilitate informed decision-making, reduce waste, and enhance market agility. Some of the Industry 4.0 technologies being developed include industrial internet of things (IIOT), augmented reality, big data analytics, and machine learning predictions; all of which rely on a foundation of unified connection throughout the factory. The unique challenge facing manufacturers is the aggregation of data from the wide range of equipment utilizing disparate machine protocols present in their factory. This research demonstrates how to connect to several discrete pieces of equipment and aggregate that data in one location. This is done using PTC Inc. Kepware and ThingWorx software products. Kepware is a connectivity platform that can translate disparate protocols and tunnel data to ThingWorx, an industrial data solution platform, which then aggregates the data. To validate the use of Kepware and ThingWorx in a diverse industrial hardware setting, connections between Kepware and an Allen-Bradly PLC, a Siemens PLC, Fanuc Robot (GE open), UR Robot (Modbus), Manual Mill (Toshiba Motor Controller), Manual Lathe (via Lab View OPC UA), and Haas CNC mill (MT Connect) were established. Then data points from each piece of equipment were defined in ThingWorx. Resulting in unified connectivity with aggregated data from discrete industrial equipment. Setting the foundation for further Industry 4.0 implementation across the factory.
University / Institution: Brigham Young University
Type: Oral
Format: In Person
SESSION D (3:30-5:00PM)
Area of Research: Engineering
Faculty Mentor: Yuri Hovanski
Location: Alumni House, DUMKE ROOM (4:10pm)