Abstract: A flexible process optimizer for recording and analyzing various parameters to improve the efficiency of a production process. The flexible process optimizer acquires and conditions signals from a variety of transducers mounted on a production machine. Through qualitative and quantitative data analysis, specific aspects are of the production process which need improvement are identified. The qualitative evaluation looks at the presence, absence, or duration of certain features of the production cycle as revealed by the sensor data. The quantitative evaluation of data involves the computation of certain data attributes. By providing useful data acquisition and data analysis tools, necessary adjustments are made to the required parameters of the production process to provide improved efficiency. The results of the changes are immediately verifiable using the flexible process optimizer.

Abstract: A method is provided for monitoring characteristics of grinding tools and grinding system behavior in a production grinding process. The method includes steps of acquiring sensor data indicative of a rate of material removal over one or more measurement periods during the grinding process, acquiring sensor data indicative of power consumed by the grinding tools over the measurement periods during the grinding process, and, from a material removal versus power plot, calculating a ratio of the change in the rate of material removal to that of the power consumed by the grinding tools over the measurement periods. In some embodiments, the method includes optimizing the grinding process by adjusting the feed rates and feed transition points. Additional data from vibration sensors and work form gauges may also be used in some instances for optimization and system troubleshooting.

Abstract: A flexible process optimizer for recording and analyzing various parameters to improve the efficiency of a production process. The flexible process optimizer acquires and conditions signals from a variety of transducers mounted on a production machine. Through qualitative and quantitative data analysis, specific aspects are of the production process which need improvement are identified. The qualitative evaluation looks at the presence, absence, or duration of certain features of the production cycle as revealed by the sensor data. The quantitative evaluation of data involves the computation of certain data attributes. By providing useful data acquisition and data analysis tools, necessary adjustments are made to the required parameters of the production process to provide improved efficiency. The results of the changes are immediately verifiable using the flexible process optimizer.