‘Machine Data Collection’: Making data-driven decisions instead of relying on gut instinct
Key Takeaway
The ‘Machine Data Collection’ module lays the foundation for informed decision-making in manufacturing. Hummingbird automatically collects and visualises machine data, providing transparency on running times, downtime and key performance indicators, and is compatible with virtually any machine environment. This provides a reliable basis for targeted optimisations, greater efficiency and sustainable production management.
Transparency regarding actual production output
Only the automated collection of machine data reveals how efficiently machines actually operate. Hummingbird collects available machine data fully automatically and presents it in clear, easy-to-read dashboards. Machine and operational statuses, run times and downtime, as well as analyses, are visible in real time. Manual data entry is no longer required. Decisions are based on reliable data rather than assumptions.
Hummingbird module: Machine Data Collection (MDC)
Make data-driven decisions rather than acting on gut instinct. Only the automated collection and visualisation of machine data reveals your actual production performance, including any weak points – without serious mistakes or errors. Hummingbird’s MDC module can do even more: it generates and monitors Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), integrates with a wide variety of machines and supports expansion into a Manufacturing Execution System (MES).
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Key performance indicators as the basis for targeted improvements
Based on the machine data collected, Hummingbird automatically generates relevant key performance indicators (KPIs), including efficiency figures and the Mean Time Between Failures (MTBF). In addition, custom KPIs can also be defined via the open Application Programming Interface (API). These indicators highlight weaknesses, enable a comparison between actual and target performance and provide transparency into actual production costs. The ‘Machine data collection’ module thus lays the foundation for continuous optimisation.
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Key features of the ‘Machine Data Collection’ module
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Automated data collection
Fully automated collection of all available machine data, eliminating the need for manual input
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Real-time dashboards
Clear, real-time overview of machine statuses, running times and downtime.
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Automatic KPI generation
Automatic calculation of key metrics, such as efficiency and Mean Time Between Failures (MTBF), with support for custom KPIs via API
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Open interfaces
Integration with virtually all machines via standardised interfaces
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Integration of older machines and manual processes
Integration of existing machines via the IoT module and recording of manual processes using the Hummingbird Operation Terminal.
The data foundation for the entire MES
‘Machine Data Collection’ is a standalone module within Hummingbird MES. At the same time, it provides the data foundation for other MES functions such as ‘Planning and Control’. This creates a seamless view of production, from the machine right up to the decision-making level.
Your benefits at a glance
- Transparency regarding actual machine performance
- Objective assessment of running times and downtime
- Well-informed decisions based on reliable data
- A sound basis for targeted optimisations
- Elimination of manual data collection tasks
MES FAQ: Machine Data Collection (MDC)
How do I interpret machine data meaningfully — which metrics matter?
Meaningful analysis starts with availability, performance, and quality: runtime versus downtime, average cycle time, and scrap rate. These metrics provide the basis for OEE, while captured reasons for downtime help identify targeted improvement measures.
How does Hummingbird measure machine data in real time?
Hummingbird MDE captures machine data in real time and automatically assigns downtime to possible causes such as setup, tool changes, errors, or maintenance. A live dashboard provides the transparency needed to monitor current machine status and relevant KPIs at any time.