Real-time monitoring station for production systems

Real-time monitoring of the flow of materials, semi-completed and completed products during production process is necessary practice for every company because of need for optimal production management. Identification of technological operations, parts, products and persons responsible for any production stage is possible using means of processes control devices and automatic identification systems. Paper describes the "in-line" monitoring station designed for tests of real-time production monitoring methods. Available sources of information are RFiD, bar codes, and vision system. These data sources are integrated into the "in-line" production monitoring station. Modular production system model or small production system can be placed under the "Inline" station as an object of monitoring. Advanced PLC integrates control over subsystems and allows communication between hardware and software components of data acquisition system. Data acquired from the "in-line" research station is stored in a dedicated database, then processed and analysed using MES (Manufacturing Execution System) software.