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What is machine data acquisition (MDA)?

Machine data acquisition, short MDEis a technology that is used to record and analyze machine operating data. The close link with Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) and the Production data acquisition (PDA) enables companies to gain a comprehensive overview and control of their production processes. Machine data acquisition is often used in factories and production facilities and is intended to support error monitoring and problem diagnosis. Machine data acquisition systems can record machine functions, machine statuses, processes and environmental conditions. In addition, some systems also allow the operation of the machine by the employee to be recorded and monitored.

Machine data acquisition forms the Interface between devices in production and information processing in companies. Recording machine data creates greater transparency and therefore helps to optimize production processes in the long term. MDC is a major step towards the digitalization of production.

Read this article to find out how machine data acquisition works and why it is an asset to your company.

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What is the aim of machine data acquisition?

The overriding aim of machine data acquisition is to increase productivity in the long term. Analysis of the data can result in more efficient machine utilization and better order planning.

MDE systems perform the following tasks:

  • Production quantity recording: MDC systems continuously record the number of units produced. This information is essential for production planning and inventory management. It enables companies to monitor and achieve their production targets by ensuring that production output meets expectations.
  • Real-time monitoring: One of the key features of modern MDC systems is the ability to monitor machine and production data in real time. This includes monitoring machine conditions, operating speeds, temperature, pressure and other critical parameters that can affect production performance and safety.
  • Fault messages: MDC systems are able to detect anomalies and potential errors in production. They automatically send warnings and fault messages to the operating personnel or maintenance teams, enabling a rapid response to problems and minimizing downtime.
  • Analysis of production data and faults: By collecting and analyzing production data, MDC systems help to gain deeper insights into the production process. This makes it possible to identify the causes of faults, evaluate process efficiency and implement continuous improvement measures.
  • Storage of analysis data in the cloud: The integration of cloud technologies enables MDE systems to securely store and access large amounts of production data. This facilitates access to data for analysis purposes, improves collaboration between different locations and supports data-driven decision-making across geographical and organizational boundaries.

What does machine data consist of?

Machine data can be very diverse. In addition to information such as capacity utilization or machine status, machine data also includes the production quantity and energy consumption. There are two types of machine data, which are Process data and the Product data.

Process data

  • Data relating to the operation of the machine
  • Serve to monitor the production process

Product data

  • Data is generated in the course of production
  • Measurements of the production units
  • Allow quality analysis of production

What production data is available?

The production data serve as Key figures for industrial performance >and provide information about the quality of production. The relevant data can be qualitative as well as Quantitative and vary depending on the type of product. For example, they relate to the weight, thickness, temperature during production or even the number of units produced.

Extended functions of modern MDE systems: increasing production output 

Modern machine data acquisition systems not only offer basic data acquisition functions, but also use advanced technologies to optimize production processes in Real time monitoring and optimization. These systems are crucial for companies looking for ways to increase their efficiency, Reduce production costs and improve the quality of their products. They go far beyond traditional methods by enabling complex data analyses and supporting preventive measures that lead to significant improvements in the quality of their products. Improving the overall performance of production lead.

Real-time monitoring and interfaces

The MDC systems enable continuous monitoring of machine performance through automatic data acquisition. By using standardized interfaces such as MK | Connect, these systems can continuously collect and process data on machine conditions such as runtime, faults, energy consumption and capacity utilization.

Integration in Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES)

Integration into MES systems enables comprehensive visualization of production data. Dashboards provide decision-makers with direct access to critical performance indicators, which speeds up decision-making and improves responsiveness to production changes.

Application of digital twins

Machine data acquisition systems are considered the basis for digital twins. These provide a virtual representation of the physical machines and make it possible to simulate and analyze production processes without affecting the real plant. This not only reduces the risk and costs associated with physical testing, but also enables more precise planning and optimization of production processes.

What are the advantages of machine data acquisition software?

Digitalization is an important success factor in industry. Just how important digitalized machine data acquisition is for increasing productivity becomes clear when you take a look at the benefits.

Software for machine data acquisition - these are the advantages at a glance

  • Reduction of downtimes: Our MDE system monitors machines in real time, detecting irregularities and potential faults at an early stage. This enables preventive maintenance interventions before costly breakdowns occur.
  • Optimization of machine availability: By continuously recording and analyzing operating data, companies can maximize the uptime of their systems. The systems help to plan the optimal use of machines and minimize downtimes.
  • Better planning of maintenance work: The MDE software makes it possible to plan maintenance work based on actual machine data instead of relying on estimates or set intervals. This leads to more efficient maintenance and can extend the service life of the machines.
  • Valuable findings for quality management: Thanks to the detailed recording and analysis of production data, quality defects can be identified more quickly and their causes analyzed precisely. This improves product quality and reduces rework and scrap costs.
  • Support for strategic decisions: Analyzing the collected data enables managers to make informed decisions about investments, process changes and innovations. The data provides the basis for strategic planning and long-term improvements.

The MDE software from MK|Ware helps your company to increase productivity and thus maintain its competitiveness in the long term.

Digitalization of production - MDE software from MK|Ware

MK|Code is a Innovative software for machine data acquisition. It can be used to record production cycles and optimize manufacturing processes. Important questions about the production process or the performance of the machine can be answered directly - for more transparency, efficiency and to reduce costs. With our MK|Code software, we guarantee you complete traceability in every industry.

In addition to the use of our MK|Code software, a combination of this and our products is essential for integrated machine data acquisition. MK|MES and MK|Performance recommendable.

A major advantage of the MK|Ware software: it works manufacturer-independent and can therefore be optimally implemented in existing infrastructures. It is also individually scalable to your company's production processes.

Discover tomorrow's production possibilities today with the help of our analyses - arrange an appointment now non-binding consultation appointment. We look forward to your inquiry.

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