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Interview with Mr. Lupi Giovanni - plant manager

Mr. Giovanni, what tools you use in the management of your production?

From the beginning we have considered computer technology as an instrument of our work, this approach has been gradual in time, the first centralized system for the management of Lathes was in fact realized in '96, with the use of a cable network and one of the first software programs made by the company Mecmatica Srl.

Why did you need to implement it?

The technical requirements in machine setup are part of the passive production cycle and therefore having a centralized system was the first step for careful management of the machine programs. We are convinced that "all automation saves money" and constantly over time, so we have updated our systems to the new technologies available and proven in industrial production.

Do we want to quantify the savings?

The centralized Colwin Software system has allowed us to recover 10% of the time in machine setup and 20% overall efficiency in the single-phase production cycle of our lathes. Besides, of course, the added value of having structured in a safe way our valuable programs that are saved in LAN network and indexed for a quick recovery on board machine by the production toolmakers.

From cable connection to wireless, why?

The technology does not stop and Metalmicron has been able to take advantage of the operational advantages that can result from the adoption of a centralized wireless connection system. We were among the first to handle the switch from cable to antenna, the change in production was gradual and non-invasive, Every new machine we buy or replace is disconnected from the wired system and switched to the wireless network simply by adding the 802.11B standard technology client device provided by Mecmatica.

Today we have 8 machines connected in wireless network, out of a total of 31 CN Lathes present, and 4 other machines are about to be connected. The two wired and wireless systems, coexist without problems and all the initial software investment has been maintained, except for the upgrades necessary for optimal network management.

Where is the wireless solution a winner?

Certainly the costs of electrical maintenance have been reduced, and having to optimize the logistics and the internal layout of the machines, we are now free to move the machines without additional intervention and configuration costs, typical of a traditional wired system. The operational aspects and the use of the Colwin software have remained exactly the same on the part of the operators, in addition we can transmit and receive in the machine also third party programs taking advantage of the centralized network installed in the department.

Were there any service interruptions?

The Colwin Wireless system has now been installed for almost a year and we have not had any downtime or other significant connection problems, the standard Wi-Fi system has proven to be as reliable as the traditional cable.

What distinguishes the relationship with the solution provider?

Mecmatica has been chosen since 1996 for its direct and significant experience in the world of mechanics. A very strong element was for us the ability to innovate with modern solutions and technologies, always in a concrete way and applied to the specific reality of our production departments. Surely this aspect has further consolidated over time the excellent relationship we have with MecMatica. The ability to create reliable and innovative solutions for production, and making the most of today’s available Informatics technology, were a decisive factor in the choice of solution provider.