Collecting and analysing handling data along the supply chain

Together with its partners PCO and nemetris, HARTING Technology Group will be demonstrating at the Logistics 4.0 Hub at CeMAT how a combination of edge computing and the latest RFID technology can be used to collect and analyse handling, status and system data along the supply chain. The logistics trade fair CeMAT will take place as part of the HANNOVER MESSE from 23 to 27 April in Hannover.

 

Logistics and material handling systems in particular are benefiting from the new and innovative Integrated Industry solutions. HARTING's MICA® edge computing system is eminently suitable for integration in these systems. Its robust design, modular hardware and open software architecture persuaded the jury at the HERMES AWARD 2016 to select this small computer as a winner. Since then, HARTING has set up MICA.network, a user group of currently 26 companies working in system integration and software and hardware development which are using MICA® for full Industry 4.0 solutions. Both the partner companies, PCO and nemetris, use MICA® as an RFID reader with edge computing capability for their own logistics solutions.

AutoID-supported container management and tool ident

PCO will be showcasing how a manufacturing order drawn from practice is processed. The key role in the integration and interaction of different systems is played by the PCO integration layer which networks and visualises AutoID-supported container management (mobile handheld) and tool ident (stationary in the machine) with machine, process and manufacturing order data. By adding processing data stored in a database, it is also possible to introduce predictive maintenance.

Just in Sequence software for flexible and efficient process management

The Just in Sequence solution from nemetris is linked very closely with the production system and maps the entire Just in Sequence process, from call-off acceptance via EDI via the sequencing and just-in-time production management systems to dispatch and implementation of traceability. The solution from nemetris is modular and can be integrated seamlessly in existing infrastructure. This ensures that order handling is lean and proceeds smoothly, enabling serial production from a batch size of 1. Furthermore, all the data remains in the system which allows complete traceability.

Both applications can be viewed at the Logistics 4.0 Hub in Hall 24. This is also where HARTING will be presenting the latest version of the MICA®, which combines RFID with WLAN and mobile radio in one device. HARTING, with the MICA.network user group, is also organising an experts' day on the subject of Industry 4.0 in the Logistics sector on the Wednesday morning (25 April 2018) in Speakers Corner at CeMAT.