Productivity..

Transparent communications across all company levels can potentially bring significant productivity increases. Mitsubishi has launched two inexpensive MES solutions that enable real-time exchange of production data between the application and management  levels. Both these new solutions are part of Mitsubishi’s comprehensive eF@ctory concept.

Transparent communications across all company levels can potentially bring significant productivity increases. Mitsubishi Electric is launching two inexpensive MES solutions that enable real-time exchange of production data between the application and management  levels. Both these new solutions are part of Mitsubishi’s comprehensive eF@ctory concept. The new MES Interface Module for the MELSEC System Q automation platform and the MES Interface Function for the GOT1000 series of control terminals support direct data connections. Both solutions eliminate the need for a conventional gateway PC or complicated programs that take so long to write.

The new MES Interface Module for the MELSEC System Q is a simple and inexpensive technology for transferring relevant data from production to a management execution system (MES) in real time. It ensures a robust flow of information between the production and management levels of the company, providing a solid foundation for transparent manufacturing. Each module supports simultaneous access to up to 32 databases. The relevant data for production, process and quality control can be selected directly and passed on to the planning tools so that they always have the latest information.

Communication in the other direction is just as direct and reliable: The database can also access the MES Interface Module and the controller system. After production information has been analysed and processed in the database the results can then be sent directly back to the controller, online. This offloads secondary tasks from the controller and makes it possible for companies to intervene in production at any time and respond immediately to new production situations.

Simple configuration instead of complex programming
A user-friendly configuration tool called MX MESInterface helps PLC programmers to select the data needed for controlling the necessary production and business processes. The tool is operated with simple menus and requires no special database programming skills.

Bidirectional communications are performed with the standard SQL database language via a TCPI/P Ethernet interface integrated in the module. Data communications are event-triggered and only place very brief loads on the network. Multiple modules in different production cells can all be connected to the same database. Exchange of documents formatted with the non-proprietary XML (Extensible Markup Language) format is also supported. The MES Interface Module is compatible with all leading databases, including Oracle, Microsoft SQL Server & Microsoft Access.

A solid state data backup buffer reliably protects the module against failures in the network and the connected information system. In the event of a communication problem the data is stored on a Compact Flash card with a timestamp and automatically transmitted to the database as soon as the interruption is over. The transfer can also be initiated manually, if required. Time synchronisation is performed via the network using the Simple Network Time Protocol, or by the controller.

Control terminals with MES functionality
The new MES Interface Function for the control terminals of the GOT1000 series provides an equally simple and inexpensive way to exchange data with the management level. The functionality is provided by an expansion card that is plugged into the terminal unit. Communication between the terminal and the database is performed via Ethernet in real time. The data items to be transferred are selected with the standard GT-Designer control terminal programming software package.

The interface function enables each control terminal to transfer data to a database from up to four connected automation components. In addition to all of Mitsubishi Electric’s automation products, the 4-channel multi-driver architecture also makes it easy to integrate the controllers and automation components of other manufactures in a management information system. Existing control terminals can easily be upgraded with the new MES Interface Function.

The network-capable control terminals of the GOT1000 series have a touch-screen user interface and screens measuring between 8.4” and 15” (diagonal). The series covers the needs of both simple and complex system operation and visualisation applications.

Efficient and reliable
Direct communication between the controller or a control terminal and the database is much more reliable than conventional communications channels. In addition to this, both new solutions also provide economic benefits: Conventional information systems first transfer the data from the control level to a computer, where it is converted before being passed on to the central database via the company network. This computer functions as a gateway between the communication networks, which use different protocols. In addition to the extra hardware overheads, this roundabout route also involves a considerable amount of additional software engineering because the data transfer routines must be programmed individually for every PC program.

This new information technology from Mitsubishi Electric integrates all the data communications functions of a gateway computer in simple modules for the MELSEC System Q automation platform and control terminals of the GOT1000 series, eliminating the costs involved in conventional systems. In addition to this these modules also reduce information technology maintenance and service overheads. The clear system architecture and simple configuration make installation fast and easy. Existing automation systems can easily be upgraded with the new functionality.

The e-F@ctory concept

These new MES solutions are part of Mitsubishi Electric’s
e-F@ctory concept. This concept is built on an integrated flow of information between the control systems on the automation level and the tools used by the corporate and production planning departments. In addition to the two new tools for direct data communications, e-F@ctory also includes EZSocket, a communications software package for information systems with a conventional architecture. Together with Mitsubishi Electric’s comprehensive product range, which includes everything needed for plant and factory automation, e-F@ctory enables the realisation of technologically advanced and economical integrated solutions.

For information about this or any other Mitsubishi product, call LC Automation on 01254 685900 or e-mail marketing@lca.co.uk for more details, pricing and availability.

Mitsubishi Nagoya Plant Results with MES..

50% Reduction in
Lead Time

1.8 x More Productivity

Higher Quality
- no defects

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Download the Mitsubishi MES Brochure