MPmax (Machine Productivity Maximizer)

Makino has released its new real-time machine process monitoring and data management software solution, the MPmax (Machine Productivity Maximizer). By connecting multiple machines on a single network to a centralized computer, MPmax enables manufacturers to retrieve, store and analyze high volumes of machine data in real time.

"With MPmax, manufacturers have all the tools necessary to detect and react to bottlenecks on the fly," says Jim Brown, Makino's control software development manager. "Its remote monitoring capabilities allow manufacturers to always stay up to date with machining processes even while they're away from the shop floor. This ability to better understand and more closely observe machine performance offers unlimited opportunities for manufacturers to optimize the efficiency of their shop floor and get the most from their machining investments."

MPmax offers data management capabilities for a variety of key machine performance features, including multiple machine status monitoring, machine utilization, alarms, probe data analysis, spindle and axis movement, machine power (Available only with the machine power monitor option) and tool management work scheduling. Data retrieved for machine utilization, alarm events and power consumption offer manufacturers an opportunity to analyze and troubleshoot workflow inefficiencies.

With MPmax, manufacturers can confidently transfer work between machines based on conditions of overuse and underuse to even the flow of work throughout the shop floor. Its Pareto chart display of alarms offers manufacturers an opportunity to review a full list of alarm events to adapt machine process for alarm prevention. Recorded electrical energy usage can assist manufacturers in scheduling jobs for various times of day based on fluctuating energy costs for enhanced savings.

MPmax's ability to collect probe data and calculate the Cpk process capability index lets manufacturers track accuracy performance in critical features to ensure the highest level of part quality. Its spindle and axis monitoring technologies record and display axis forces, loads and speeds. This data can then be used to fine-tune processes for faster cutting speeds and greater depths of cut.

The MPmax tool data management system can register, manage and monitor all critical tool data for multiple machines from one centralized location. By making appropriate adjustments based on this data, manufacturers can get the highest level of performance out of each tool while extending tool life. MPmax software provides additional capabilities for remote viewing, allowing operators and management the capability to respond to and track processes as they occur without interrupting other day-to-day activities.

Its control remote view displays machine tool controls in real time from any networked PC. For jobs requiring quick turnarounds, this feature is an ideal way to provide operators or technicians with assistance in the repair or operation of a machine tool. Data cannot be input from this display mode to prevent accidental changes to tooling or part dimensions. The MPmax machine camera monitoring (available only with camera-equipped machines) captures an internal view of a machine's work zone, making it easier to solve processing errors before they become a detriment to part quality.

E-mail notification capabilities enable operators to deliver current machine status information to their service department, including alarm texts and images of the work zone. This ability to immediately notify service staff with the details and information required to address problems as they occur can dramatically improve productivity and process control.