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TIMS, an acronym for Tongtai Integrated Monitoring Systems, is a new software initiative from Absolute Machine Tools Inc. that was created between engineers and technology experts from Tongtai Machine Tools and FANUC. TIMS is software geared more towards process and machine tool management, rather than production monitoring. The software enables management to monitor real time and historical parameters on each machine within a cell, and the production line as a whole, from anywhere on the Intranet or Internet. The data collected is downloadable from the software and can be exported into Excel for analyzing, sharing, and emailing purposes.
There are four main functions in TIMS: Machine Situations Monitoring, Production Line Management, Operation History Recording, and Alarm History Recording. Machine Situations Monitoring is used by team members to check the real time machine conditions pertaining to spindle speed, loads on axes, and the current program number in operation. Production Line Management assists production managers in monitoring cycle times on all machines within a cell, monitors operations for comparison of cycle times and statuses of jobs. Management can fully inform themselves as to if the job is currently on time and running to full capacity, or needs improvements to meet deadlines and quality control specifications. Operation History Recording allows for comparing variances of functionality with the machine that can potentially affect capacity and volume. This function helps both management and maintenance understand where problems are arising that may affect the machine's performance. And lastly, Alarm History Recording tracks the CNC control alarms which will assist in resolving potential issues before they become a serious problem.
These four functions together create the optimal production line information base for proper factory management in real-time. Another benefit is that it can be used by sales to secure additional production jobs by offering data and security to customers, ensuring their job will be properly supervised and controlled for exceptional quality and timeliness. TIMS is now being used by many large manufacturing facilities in North America, and is offered exclusively by Absolute Machine Tools, the North American distributor for Tongtai brand machine tools.
Related Glossary Terms
- computer numerical control ( CNC)
computer numerical control ( CNC)
Microprocessor-based controller dedicated to a machine tool that permits the creation or modification of parts. Programmed numerical control activates the machine’s servos and spindle drives and controls the various machining operations. See DNC, direct numerical control; NC, numerical control.
- quality assurance ( quality control)
quality assurance ( quality control)
Terms denoting a formal program for monitoring product quality. The denotations are the same, but QC typically connotes a more traditional postmachining inspection system, while QA implies a more comprehensive approach, with emphasis on “total quality,” broad quality principles, statistical process control and other statistical methods.
