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iVTInternational.com November 2019
TOP RIGHT: Cobo’s CANlive
module
ABOVE LEFT: Cobo’s
Wireless End Device
(WED)
LEFT: The Intouch
platform
available. This function prevents data loss if the machine
is operational in areas where connectivity is poor or
lacking, for example inside mines, tunnels and quarries.
Modules
To complete the range of connectivity solutions Cobo
has developed several modules, starting from the Wed
control unit that allows the automatic identification of
any equipment installed on a machine. Furthermore, this
wireless control unit does not need an external power
supply because it is equipped with a long-life battery
(five years minimum) and remains on standby until
vibrations are detected, indicating that the machine has
been started-up. Only then does the controller
start sending the unique identification
code that enables the recognition of
the tool connected to the machine.
Even the operator can be identified
by RFID (radio-frequency
identification) technology.
From data to solutions
The issue is then how to
make sense of the
increasing amount of data
received from the
machines. If having data
now is within everyone’s
reach, data analysis is the
real added value that makes
the difference. Cobo has
developed a powerful tool for this:
the cloud-based Cobo Intouch
platform, which in addition to monitoring
the data flows,
analyzes data and
reports it to meet
the user’s needs. A key
characteristic of these
systems is the simplicity
of use and the concrete
advantages that such a
solution can offer. Cobo’s
philosophy certainly includes
predictive functions. The
company believes that analysis
algorithms must be increasingly focused
on the prediction of situations rather
than simply displaying information. To
predict means anticipating events that
could in some way cause damage in
terms of time, safety, money,
efficiency and effectiveness. It is
quite clear at this point that an
instrument with this potential
translates into innovation able
to provide real added value.
In touch with the future
The Intouch platform has
a completely customizable
interface and can be adapted
both to the needs of the
manufacturer and the machine.
All the data is available in different
page views through graphic gadgets,
simple, clear and instinctive. The position
and logs of all active/inactive machines are
always available on maps and a reporting section
provides statistics and performance indicators (KPI)
which can be designed to display any relevant variables
for monitoring. It is also possible to configure alerts, and
warnings automatically generated by pre-established
events can be sent by e-mail or SMS so as to inform the
relevant manager of the whereabouts and status of the
machines. With this solution there are no more
unexpected situations. Real-time monitoring can be
activated anytime in order to analyze data while the
machine is in operation. Configurable data loggers
record prespecified data being monitored. Maintenance
and related costs play a fundamental role when
managing a fleet of machines in order to maximize
yield and efficiency. This is why the development of
Intouch system technology has focused not only on
maintenance management and standard deadlines,
but in particular on predictive maintenance. In fact,
various sensors can monitor the status of the
machine’s equipment through readings of data available
on the CANbus, and managed with an innovative
approach. Monitoring is also carried out by controlling
vibrations, noise and fluid quality - all analyzed by
AI algorithms that facilitate the prevention of failures
and anomalies. iVT
Author: Fasto Brocchi, sales connectivity solutions
manager, Cobo
/pivt
/iVTInternational.com
