Smarter Machines. Simpler Operation.
How modern controls are making increasingly sophisticated machines simpler to operate
Injection molding has never offered manufacturers more capability. Today’s production cells can combine all-electric machine technology, robotics, vision inspection, quality control, traceability, MES connectivity and increasingly sophisticated process-assistance systems.
At the same time, manufacturers face an ongoing challenge: finding and retaining experienced technical personnel.
As manufacturing technology becomes more sophisticated, should operating that technology also become more complicated? Perhaps the answer should be exactly the opposite.
Complexity Behind the Screen—Simplicity in Front of It
Modern machine controls have an increasingly important job: making sophisticated technology accessible to the people running production.
The goal isn’t to replace process knowledge. Instead, good control design should help operators find information quickly, guide them through routine tasks and reduce unnecessary complexity.
This philosophy can be seen in ARBURG’s GESTICA lite control system, introduced with the electric ALLROUNDER TREND.
ARBURG GESTICA lite
GESTICA lite features a clearly structured dashboard providing information about the current job and process, with direct access to important machine parameters. Simplified navigation, assistance functions, troubleshooting support and digital maintenance guidance are designed to make everyday machine interaction easier.
Supporting the Operator
Digital assistance can also help standardize how machines are set up, operated and maintained, reducing dependence on knowledge held by only a few experienced individuals.
AI has a role to play too – not by replacing process knowledge, but by helping operators find information faster and make better use of the knowledge already built into the machine. GESTICA lite, for example, incorporates AI functionality into its simplified navigation and search capabilities.
Simple Doesn’t Mean Basic
There is an important distinction between simplifying technology and simplifying access to technology.
Machines will continue to become smarter, automation more integrated and production increasingly connected. The opportunity is to put that capability behind an interface that makes the operator’s job easier – not harder.
The factory of the future may be technologically complex behind the scenes, but for the people operating it, simplicity could become one of its most valuable features.
Interested in learning more? Contact the Turner Group team to start the conversation.