Abstract: Method and system for monitoring the operation of a machine having a traversing tool or die member, based on a plurality of features extracted from a process 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 machine 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: Method of and system for monitoring the operation of a stamping press including a punch and a die for forming parts from a blank based on processed punch tonnages measurements at predetermined locations in the working stroke. The method includes selecting at least two punch locations at which a press variable measurement will be made and operating the stamping press so as to produce production parts to measure a production press operating variable at the locations for each production part produced. The method also includes processing the production press operating variables to obtain production operating parameters and comparing the production operating parameters to predetermined operating limits representing limits within which the variation in blank thickness and work hardening coefficient of the sheet metal are in control and acceptable stampings are being produced.

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: An adaptive method of detecting a misfiring cylinder in a spark-ignited internal combustion engine during substantially all engine operating conditions, including most no-load operation. The method includes the step of normalizing an engine acceleration-independent and engine speed-independent power cycle time differential signal for a particular cylinder of the engine, obtained from consecutive power cycle time periods of an engine cycle, utilizing a calibration parameter stored in the memory for the particular cylinder, to obtain a normalized power cycle time differential signal for the particular cylinder. The method also includes the step of comparing the normalized power cycle time differential signal to a misfire threshold signal stored in the memory to determine if the cylinder is misfiring. Preferably, the misfire threshold signal is based on at least one engine operating parameter.