Data-driven efficiency Open Mind integrates new module for complete digital tool management

Related Vendors

OPEN MIND Technologies AG

HASCO Hasenclever GmbH + Co KG

BORIDE Engineered Abrasives

Renishaw plc

With its new Hummingbird ‘Tool Logistics’ module, Open Mind enables manufacturers to standardize tool data, streamline logistics, and reduce downtime through seamless CAM–MES integration.

Digitalization enables complete customized solutions for manufacturers and Open Mind Technologies is now presenting a digital tool management suite in its portfolio. The offering is aimed at manufacturing companies that use Hypermill or other CAM systems with a tool database. With the ‘Tool Logistics,’ module in Hummingbird MES users can achieve highly efficient digital tool management in just five steps.

A lack of transparency in tool management leads to time losses due to searching and provision allocation, plus costs incurred through inefficient warehousing with excess tool stocks or premature tool changes. In the worst case scenarios, manufacturers can witness significant downtime due to missing or incorrect data. It is here that modernization is a must. Open Mind experts can implement digital processes based on CAM and MES to deliver highly efficient digital tool management in five simple steps.

The first step is to analyze existing processes and systems. This involves reviewing available tool and storage data, or how tool storage and setup processes are organized. Potential improvements are identified, and a detailed roadmap for system implementation is developed, including the definition of the system structure and the assignment of responsibilities.

Standardizing data in the Hypermill or other CAM system tool database is a necessary prerequisite for error-free, efficient processes. A dedicated workshop provides support in this area.

All modules of the tool management system are prepared, configured, and tested in a development environment. The interface to Hypermill is standard and can be used immediately. All other interfaces, such as connections to machines and presetting devices, are also configured and tested with full training provided.

The combination of planned commissioning and practical coaching ensures a smooth start with the new tool management system. The data management system is the tool database of the CAM solution. The Hummingbird ‘Tool Logistics’ module is used, for example, to organize remaining tool life or tool measurement as well as the tool and holder storage and logistics. Feedback from machine operators can also be recorded if deviations in cutting values or tool life occur in practice.

After an initial integration phase, a check is carried out to see whether the processes have been implemented as planned. A measurable success is, for example, when the variety of tools or usage on the shop floor has been reduced. The integration of additional systems can now also be checked, for example by connecting tool storage cabinets or enabling direct communication between the machine and the system via OPC UA. The expansion towards intelligent control through bidirectional communication between Hummingbird and the machine tool is a further possible step towards consistently digital and automated processes. It also opens up the option of introducing further components of the modular Hummingbird MES to reap even greater efficiencies.

Precise and well-maintained data form the basis of consistent tool management. The Hypermill tool database, in combination with the Tool Builder provides users with the ideal conditions for this. Thanks to the integrated synchronization solution, the data can be used consistently and reliably directly in Hummingbird at any time without an additional interface.

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