Launched at the 2015 edition of the biennial EMO manufacturing technology show held in Italy (the 2017 edition will be in Hanover, 18-23 September), iHMI is intended to appeal to a new generation of users. Fanuc iHMI is not only a display but also a kernel platform for connection to the Internet of Things (IoT), supporting the uploading and sharing of machine information.
MachiningCloud is a cloud service that hosts cutting tool data and which has numerous partners (www.machiningcloud.com).
The MachiningCloud/iHMI solution was displayed during JIMTOF 2016, Japan (17-22 November). Tool data provided via MachiningCloud and tool offset information measured by tool presetters, such as those from Zoller, also a MachiningCloud partner, can be imported and used via iHMI.
With MachiningCloud, Fanuc’s customers will, the company says, have a simpler way to find the right cutting tools, as they will have direct access to current and complete tooling data without the need to search through printed catalogues or multiple websites to find it. This convenience and accuracy will save time and increase efficiency on the shopfloor, it adds.
Says Chuck Mathews, managing director and Cloud Evangelist for MachiningCloud: “We are excited about our collaboration with Fanuc Corporation, as with the combination of Fanuc’s new iHMI, along with the capabilities of Zoller's tool measurement capabilities on MachiningCloud, the CNC world will gain new operational efficiencies - one step closer to the promise of Industry 4.0 and smart manufacturing initiatives.”
