Key Factors Affecting Data Integrity

Factors Affecting Data Integrity

The integrity of data recorded in a database from any device whether a PLC or other machine can be affected for a variety of reasons.

The following are a few examples:

• Error due to human error: Data integrity is jeopardized when people enter information erroneously, duplicate or delete data, fail to follow proper protocols, or make mistakes during the implementation of procedures designed to protect data. As we all know this is very easy to do!

• Errors in the transfer: A transfer error occurs when data cannot be effectively transferred from one device or database location to another. In a relational database, transfer errors occur when a piece of data is present in the destination table but doesn’t seem to show up in the source table.

• Bugs and Viruses: Spyware, malware, and viruses are types of software that can infiltrate a computer and change, erase, or steal information. We are seeing this all the time, everywhere. All companies must protect themselves regardless of the size of your company!

• Hardware that has been compromised: Significant failures include sudden PLC, computer or server crashes, as well as issues with how the device performs, which could indicate that your hardware is compromised. Compromise hardware might cause data to be rendered inaccurately or incompletely, limit or remove data access, or make information difficult to use.

The following steps can simply be taken to reduce or remove data integrity risks:

• Limiting data access and modifying permissions to prevent unauthorized parties from making changes to data

• Validating data, both when it’s collected and when it’s utilized, to ensure that it’s accurate.

• Using logs to keep track of when data is added, edited, or deleted is a good way to back up data.

• Internal audits are carried out on a regular basis.

• Using software to spot errors.

So really what do you need to know to implement Industry 4.0?

Industry 4.0 is a culmination of many factors and to make your interest in the subject an easy one, thought we’d put together a list of terms related to Industry 4.0. These are all the factors we believe that could lead you to a understand industry 4.0 and the right path to making your factory the factory of the future!

Do you have an understand of these?

• Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP): Business process management tools that can be used to manage information across an organization.

• IoT: IoT stands for Internet of Things, a concept that refers to connections between physical objects like sensors or machines and the Internet.

• IIoT: IIoT stands for the Industrial Internet of Things, a concept that refers to the connections between people, data, and machines as they relate to manufacturing.

• Big data: Big data refers to large sets of structured or unstructured data that can be compiled, stored, organized, and analyzed to reveal patterns, trends, associations, and opportunities.

• Artificial intelligence (AI): Artificial intelligence is a concept that refers to a computer’s ability to perform tasks and make decisions that would historically require some level of human intelligence.

• M2M: This stands for machine-to-machine, and refers to the communication that happens between two separate machines through wireless or wired networks.

• Digitization: Digitization refers to the process of collecting and converting different types of information into a digital format.

• Smart factory: A smart factory is one that invests in and leverages Industry 4.0 technology, solutions, and approaches.

• Machine learning: Machine learning refers to the ability that computers have to learn and improve on their own through artificial intelligence—without being explicitly told or programmed to do so.

• Cloud computing: Cloud computing refers to the practice of using interconnected remote servers hosted on the Internet to store, manage, and process information.

• Real-time data processing: Real-time data processing refers to the abilities of computer systems and machines to continuously and automatically process data and provide real-time or near-time outputs and insights.

• Ecosystem: An ecosystem, in terms of manufacturing, refers to the potential connectedness of your entire operation—inventory and planning, financials, customer relationships, supply chain management, and manufacturing execution.

• Cyber-physical systems (CPS): Cyber-physical systems, also sometimes known as cyber manufacturing, refers to an Industry 4.0-enabled manufacturing environment that offers real-time data collection, analysis, and transparency across every aspect of a manufacturing operation.

Ok, now that you have this glossary of terms and their meanings perhaps we can take the next step. Learning how these items work together to make your Factory of the Future a reality!

Canada’s new manufacturing era trades dusty factories for robotics, 3D printers

Interesting article here, regarding the transformation of manufacturing and industry. When you think of Industry 4.0 you may think of a clean manufacturing environment, bright clear lights, perhaps robots moving things about and 3D printers creating parts in room without people. We do as well. Although we just don’t see the adoption out in the mainstream. We see dusty old network architecture, assembly done by humans all with repetitive actions and not ideal conditions.

In order for us to be on the leading edge of technology in North America, we must continue to have these new technologies adopted by manufacturers through taking a leap and making change. That is the paradigm shift, that isn’t happening fast enough. We all know that Asia is far and away superior at making products inexpensively, we have to try and get there by making sure manufacturing have the tools they need to make Industry 4.0 happen now!

Does all this change mean getting rid of trades? Nope! It means more technology savvy trades, removing repetitive work with robots and keeping a steady eye on technology ensuring you are on the edge but maybe not the bleeding edge.

Key takeaways: robotics, vision systems and 3D printing are becoming key to the next wave of manufacturing.

Preventative Maintenance Solution? Yes!

Triton Innovation has had the opportunity to work with Automotive, Agriculture and Consumer goods companies for many years. During all this time Predictive Maintenance always seems to be on forefront of our discussions. Companies want to have effective systems that give them the predictive tools to identify opportunities in order to reduce cost, increase efficiencies and eliminate waste. Triton Innovation along with our partner IoTco have a mission is to help clients create a competitive advantage through digital transformation. We can achieve this by using Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) and predictive analytics tools to connect and analyze complex manufacturing processes, systems and machines. The goal at the end of the day is to enhance productivity.

Triton Innovation and IoTco are experts at deploying complex predictive analytics solutions using a timely, cost-effective and scalable strategy. With our deep expertise in software, analytics and manufacturing methodologies, we are able to assist your company in turning complex data into insights clients can use to improve their operation.

On average, our clients experience:

• 10% – 40% improvement in overall equipment effectiveness (OEE) and uptime

• 1% to 10% reduction in scrap rates

• 5% to 20% reduction in maintenance and spare part costs

• Significant improvements in mean time to repair (MTTR) and mean time between failures (MTBF)

Proven Tools

We have access to innovative, state-of-the-art digital transformation tools, powered by IoT and predictive analytics.

• Predictive Analytics (PDX) – rapidly deploy solution templates that utilize A.I. for predictive maintenance and predictive quality for zero-downtime, zero-defect manufacturing

Working with Triton Innovation and IoTco in the development of a solution or Predictive Maintenance issues could be the the formula you've been looking for. Let's setup some time for a discovery call with you and your team to further explore implementing our Preventative Maintenance and Industry 4.0 solutions in your operation?  

Contact - Sales@tritoninnovation.com

Digital Transformation?

Digital Transformation - What does it mean?

Ok, another bunch of buzzwords - DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION. The idea is to develop a strategy to transition from where you are now to where you should be with technology. Enterprise and Industrial networking digital transformation process has to be about applying technologies that improve the experience for users and will enhance and drive business value. The idea of digital transformation isn’t really new but as organizations rely on more technology to support their business digital transformation reflects the ever changing technology requirements in all business.

So clearly, digital transformation is critical in order to keep up with technology and harness the power of the network.

Digital transformation means network managers whether on the industrial floor or carpeted floor, must learn new skills and adapt new ways to interact with the business

All of this plus companies have to be able to have reliable, secure application and innovative technologies which will help making the transition as bump free as possible.

Digital Twin - More Than a Buzzword

Why is digital twin technology important?

“ Digital twins are powerful masterminds to drive innovation and performance. Imagine it as your most talented product technicians with the most advanced monitoring, analytical, and predictive capabilities at their fingertips. By 2018, companies who invest in digital twin technology will see a 30 percent improvement in cycle times of critical processes, predicts IDC.

There will be billions of things represented by digital twins within the next five years. These proxies of the physical world will lead to new collaboration opportunities among physical world product experts and data scientists whose jobs are to understand what data tells us about operations.

Digital twin technology helps companies improve the customer experience by better understanding customer needs, develop enhancements to existing products, operations, and services, and can even help drive the innovation of new business.”

- Forbes Magazine

Robotic Welding & Tritons Self Teach Welding System

Utilizing the 3D design of the the welding fixture, along with the 3D layout of the welding cell we can create a true digital twin of the manufacturing process. The robot programming and weld path programming can all be done off-line using the simulation software. A review of the weld path to insure there is no contact or collision concerns is the next step, followed by the verification of torch tip angles. Now that all of the aspects have been reviewed in the digital space, we can dry cycle the cell review any differences from the digital model. With the self-teach system activated, we can cycle the robot through it’s inspection routine and measure the key points that will be compared to the digital twin and offsets made accordingly. With the self teach routine run and offsets made, the welding process can begin with confidence in the quality of the part. The illustration below highlights the ability to make changes or write new programs all without holding a robot pendent. The other benefits to this approach are decreased time to produce parts from new tooling as the programming can be completed after tool design phase and while the tooling is being manufactured.

The right Robot for the job!

Collaborative Robots, AVG, Industrial Robots - What the best solution?                             

 There are so many different applications for each one of these robot solutions.  In looking for the best fit for your project and there are a few things to consider.  Those things could be as simple as how to get a product from point A to point B, right through to alleviating stress on workers from repetitive tasks.  Choice should not be just about price but about application, how often the robot will be in use and maintenance of the robot including cycle times.

 In looking at the different scopes of work required for each one of these types of robots let’s consider the size of the room, the type of work the robot will be doing and if there is a human required to interface with the robot.  

Choices for Industrial Robots - 

Collaborative Robots - These types of robots sometimes called Co-bots are being used where they are completely interfacing with humans.  We recently had the opportunity to meet a Collaborative robot here at Triton Innovation.  YUMI is a collaborative robot from ABB.  His function was setup to serve coffee, fun application.  However, could this robot be used in production?  Yes!  Here is a sample of where a small collaborative robot could be used.

ABB YUMI Collaborative Robot - https://youtu.be/_d5dgNkDEgI

AGV – Autonomous Guided Vehicle - AGVs have defined paths or areas within which or over which they can navigate. Navigation is achieved by any one of several means, including:

• following a path defined by buried inductive wires

• surface mounted magnetic or optical strips

• inertial or laser guidance

There are several types – Here are some samples

Unit load automatic guided vehicles - https://youtu.be/IVo8EOuKGsY

Forklift automatic guided vehicles - https://youtu.be/8Jlo5C8ydb4

Tugger automatic guided vehicles- https://youtu.be/pB-o-9HAu6A

 In general, AGV’s use one of two ways for guidance – Fixed path – a physical guided path – Wired, Tape or Paint on the floor.   Free-Ranging AGV’S don’t have this physical requirement they use software for the guidance so as you can imaging it would be much easier to change paths and nothing is absolute.  That being said, they do need to have correct configuration and timing/scheduling to make sure that the product is delivered when it is needed.

Industrial Robots – All purpose and proven!

 Increased efficiency, Improved quality, Safer Working Environment and Increased Profitability 

Industrial robots can complete certain tasks faster and more efficiently than humans with accuracy and efficiency. Higher levels of accuracy with industrial robots can be used to produce higher quality products.  Thereby reducing the time required for quality control and ensures that standards of quality are adhered too.  There are some tasks are deemed as too dangerous or laborious and repetitive for humans to carry out and so instead industrial robots can perform these tasks without concern and for longer hours. So therefore, working conditions can be significantly improved along with safety within factories and production plants by taking advantage of these technology forward robots. 

Industrial Robot Sample - https://youtu.be/G09piOh2s3w?list=RDCMUCM_CsBtYQd5zVuYdwmNpT6g

Finally, we have had the opportunity to work with companies and see firsthand that industrial robots regardless of choice providing the correct robot was chosen for the application, can only ensure higher profitability with lowering cost of product.  This is simply because industrial robots have increased efficiencies in process, reduced resources and time required to complete and also resulted in a higher quality of product.  So in the long run any one of these robot solutions will save companies money in the long run.

Triton Innovation has the background, experience and the knowledge required to assist you in making the right choice of robot for the application.  Our objective is to help you Automate Everything!

Industry 4.0 - 2020

This is the text from the Tillsonburg Connects article referenced previously explaining Industry 4.0.  Our explanation of how we fit in the Industry 4.0 space can be found here.

"Industry 4.0” was the brainchild of the German government, and describes the next phase in manufacturing – a so-called fourth industrial revolution. The phases consist of the following:

- Industry 1.0: Water/steam power

- Industry 2.0: Electric power

- Industry 3.0: Computing power

- Industry 4:0: Internet of Things (IOT) power

As you can imagine, building a new industrial paradigm around the Internet of Things calls for managers and professionals across all occupations to step up and support growth in new ways. Industry 4.0 will involve horizontal and vertical system integration, the Internet of Things, cybersecurity, the cloud and Big Data, robots and additive manufacturing (among other factors).

In order to support the integration of Industry 4.0 concepts into the local economic base, Tillsonburg Town
Council has approved a three-year collaboration with the Manufacturing Acceleration Program (MAP). The goal of this collaboration is to facilitate growth by raising the competitiveness and profitability of local manufacturing companies. This will be accomplished by defining clear and distinctive business strategies and knowledge transfer, and by focusing on innovation in products, processes and markets.

The Tillsonburg Economic Development Office and MAP representatives have already begun working with local companies. However, if you are interested in finding out more about how this could benefit your company, please contact Cephas Panschow, Development Commissioner, at 519.688.3009, ext 3250 or visit www.mapprogram.info.

Industry 4.0

"Industry 4.0” was the brainchild of the German government, and describes the next phase in manufacturing – a so-called fourth industrial revolution. The phases consist of the following:

- Industry 1.0: Water/steam power

- Industry 2.0: Electric power

- Industry 3.0: Computing power

- Industry 4:0: Internet of Things (IOT) power

As you can imagine, building a new industrial paradigm around the Internet of Things calls for managers and professionals across all occupations to step up and support growth in new ways. Industry 4.0 will involve horizontal and vertical system integration, the Internet of Things, cybersecurity, the cloud and Big Data, robots and additive manufacturing (among other factors).

In order to support the integration of Industry 4.0 concepts into the local economic base, Tillsonburg Town
Council has approved a three-year collaboration with the Manufacturing Acceleration Program (MAP). The goal of this collaboration is to facilitate growth by raising the competitiveness and profitability of local manufacturing companies. This will be accomplished by defining clear and distinctive business strategies and knowledge transfer, and by focusing on innovation in products, processes and markets.

The Tillsonburg Economic Development Office and MAP representatives have already begun working with local companies. However, if you are interested in finding out more about how this could benefit your company, please contact Cephas Panschow, Development Commissioner, at 519.688.3009, ext 3250 or visit www.mapprogram.info.

Tillsonburg Connects Article

The following is the text from the Tillsonburg Connects Newsletter that is put out by the town of Tillsonburg.  I thought it would be good to post here as well.

The Town of Tillsonburg is pleased to welcome Triton Innovation Inc, a recently established machine builder/systems integrator, to the community! Triton’s services range from integrating data into processes to giving machines the power of sight (enables more complex tasks to be performed) to making robots collaborative (humans and robots working together in the same space)!

While the manufacturing sector is very dynamic, many companies have not fully taken advantage of advancements in technology to better manage their production processes. Integrating technology into industrial processes has been coined “Industry 4.0” (see Industry 4.0 sidebar on Page 4) and this term is becoming more widely known. More importantly, leading edge manufacturers are taking steps to make their businesses more agile and better able to respond to changes in consumer preferences and the implementation of technology.

Triton is a pioneer in cyber-physical systems, which are a merger of physical equipment and the virtual model of that equipment. This system enables a synchronized simulation of a robotic system and can lead to a shorting of the cycle between design and launch of a product. This can lead to robots that are essentially “self-taught”! This technology can also lead to improvements in workplace safety.

While Triton is a recent start-up company, the staff has over seventy years of integration experience and has been involved in many innovative and exciting projects over the years. At Triton, they aim to improve processes and make equipment more efficient while reducing costs and improving revenue streams.

For more information on how to implement technology into your company, please visit www.tritoninnovation.com or contact Steve Spanjers at (519) 842-0127.

Here is the newsletter in its entirety:

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We're hiring!

We have a new "Careers" page on our website, and we're hiring!  Have a look, and send in your resume if you are looking for a new challenge.  Please share with anyone else you know who may be interested.

We are looking for Mechatronics Technicians, Controls Technicians, and Programmers.  Being a relatively small place, we need versatility most of all, and a willingness to learn new things.

New Building

We moved into our new building in August, but it feels official today because we finally got our sign up (I know, I need a better picture)...

View from the street of our building

Closer shot

I am very happy with the sign and the colours, come check us out if you are in the area. 

Steve

Welcome to Triton Innovation Inc.

I'm very excited to have finally launched this website.  I have been working on starting up my little company for the last few months, and I had no idea how much work it would actually be.  It has been frustrating, rewarding, fun, and painful, all at the same time.  I hope to use this space in the future to keep you updated on what is going on with me, and with the company.  In the meantime, feel free to add me on LinkedIn, or follow us on our social channels.

Steve Spanjers