Textile mill seeks software for machine monitoring

We are a weaving mill with approximately 80 machines, most of which are controlled by limit switches (i.e., only a few via PLC).

For machine monitoring, we are looking for software with the following functions:

• Record the speed while the machine is running (weaving machines measure in “wefts per minute,” which can be recorded relatively easily with a speed sensor)
• Record machine downtime (start and end, duration) and indicate the reason for the downtime
• It is sufficient if the operator can enter a reason when restarting the machine, e.g., via function keys (a list of reasons for machine downtime could be posted on each machine)
• Data should be transmitted to a server either in real time or at intervals and evaluated there using the software
• Standard evaluations, e.g., statistics: reasons for downtime, which machine has the highest number of machine malfunctions, duration of downtime, RPM/machine, etc.
• Data transfer to MS Excel for evaluation is a must

It is important that the system is straightforward and avoids unnecessary bells and whistles. It should be easy for machine operators to learn.

Approximately 2–3 software workstations are planned for approximately 80 machines.