How is the data collected?

ProTracSys collects information by using remote industrial devices dubbed RCUs (Remote Collection Units).  The RCU is the interface between the equipment on the plant floor and the main server.  Several variations of the RCU exist to fit each individual need.

All RCUs are connected to the main server via an ethernet based network. In fact, the RCUs are designed to work on a plant's existing ethernet network, yet have little to no impact on that network. The reason for this is the RCU collects and formats the data for the server. The RCU will then update the server on one minute intervals. The traffic generated on the network is minimal and might relate to someone checking their email. With this configuration the server does not create any additional traffic on the network. With other industrial solutions a server will have to constantly monitor for changes in data, which could bring the network to a grinding halt.

If communications to the server is lost, the RCU will store the data until communications returns. All RCUs are equipt with the ability to store data for days without any data loss. The RCU will continue to function and gather data during this period. If the server detects that it has loss communications with an RCU, it will begin to generate alarms. Thus, immediate action can be taken to resolve the issue without the risk of loosing data.

Auto-detection and configuration of an RCU is another useful feature of the system. With the aid of the RCU's unique serial number, the server can identify the RCU on the network. Once the server has found the RCU it will configure it with the information entered from the configuration webpages. Users have the ability to assign the RCU's network configuration, give it a name or description, or configure additional parameters without touching the RCU. This ability also makes it easy to add additional RCUs in the future.

Multiple variations of RCUs exist because a user's needs vary. Each RCU is designed to fit a specific role on the plant floor. Some are designed to gather uptime/downtime information of a specific machine. Or, track the production rate off of a line. Others can receive measurements of a part taken with a machine vision system. Tie in a barcode scanner or 2D code reader and the data can be stored associated to a serial number or a unique identifier.

Common RCU Types:

Machine RCU: Use to track the status of a machine on the plant floor. The RCU accepts discrete inputs to track output, rate, and current state of the machine.

Machine Vision RCU: Use to record values from a vision inspection system. The RCU can communicate with the vision system via ethernet communications and record a varying number of values and strings.

ASCII Serial RCU: Use to record values sent via RS232 communications using a pre-defined ASCII protocol.

Custom RCU: Create an RCU that can be designed with a specific purpose in mind.