Abstract: Method and system are provided for processing and presenting on-line, multimedia information such as diagnostic information for a machine tool. The system uses multimedia information tools (i.e. graphics, documentation, drawings, photographs, full motion video with audio, PLC ladder, etc.) and techniques to assist maintenance personnel. Diagnostic development and multimedia information assignment are accomplished through graphical visual programming, which requires no conventional software programming efforts. The system uses diagnostic trees having multimedia graphic icons which define the diagnostic components. In developing a visual diagnostic tree, the multimedia information can be assigned or mapped to each node of the tree by selecting an appropriate icon to represent the multimedia from an icon library. Then, an appropriate media information file or record and comments for that icon are further added to define that node assignments.

Abstract: Method and system for monitoring the operation of a stamping press preferably for forming automobile parts, such as fenders and quarter panels, based on a plurality of features extracted from a press signature. The method includes defining the plurality of features, each feature representing a parameter associated with the process of forming the parts, and operating the stamping press so as to produce a predetermined number of production parts while collecting a production operating signature. The method also includes extracting the feature values from the production operating signature to obtain production feature values, and comparing the production feature values to predetermined operating limits which represent limits within which acceptable parts are formed.

Abstract: A molded workpiece is formed using a mold having an inner cavity, an injection port which communicates with the inner cavity for permitting molding material to be injected into the inner cavity, and at least one disposable vent line. The vent line has sidewalls which are substantially transparent to light and provides for venting gases from the inner cavity as molding material is injected into the cavity. A material injector is coupled to the injection port for injecting molding material into the inner cavity through the injection port. A removably sensor receives the disposable vent line for detecting when molding material has substantially filled the vent line and for generating a first signal indicating that the vent line is substantially filled.