Cutting tool and tooling systems manufacturer Sandvik Coromant recently unveiled its CoroPlus suite of Industrial Internet of Things (IIOT) solutions aimed at helping manufacturers prepare for Industry 4.0. According to the company, this concept is designed to improve the control of productivity and reduce costs through a combination of connected machining and access to manufacturing data and expert knowledge.
The name ‘CoroPlus’ is an umbrella for a new platform of connected tools and software; essentially comprising technologies that can send and/or receive data. The company’s goal is to reduce data waste and improve manufacturing processes, from pre- to post-machining, through the use of connected technology and machining knowledge.
“Users not only get access to Sandvik Coromant product and application data through connected software and hardware, but with sensor-equipped tools they can adjust, control and monitor machining performance in real time,” explained Göran Näslund, head of digital machining at Sandvik Coromant. “The entire machine shop can be controlled via accurate on-site data dashboards, through the cloud and via integration with the user’s software and machine environment. CoroPlus connects into existing software environments through open APIs, offering two-way connectivity and accurate data quality.”
CoroPlus is designed to optimise manufacturing through better understanding and insight regarding what’s happening in the workshops and machining environment at both the micro and macro level.
From a CAM programmer’s perspective, connection with accurate tool and application data means that recommendations can be adapted to specific tasks. For operators, this concept means that machining processes can be monitored remotely.
In addition, specific sensor-equipped tools can be controlled to ensure that breakages are avoided and performance is secured, with data intelligence collected live throughout the machining process.
Under this concept, the company is currently offering dashboard solutions, software solutions in CoroPlus ToolGuide and Adveon Tool Library, as well as Silent Tools+ and CoroBore+ cutting tools and the Promos 3+ machine monitoring IoT system.
“With CoroPlus we are partnering with machining tool builders, cloud suppliers and network companies,” said Göran. “In this way we can help users capitalise on new technology developments. Our role is to increase productivity and flexibility through value-creating technological advancements in digital machining.”
Ultimately, CoroPlus is intended to make it possible for manufacturers to take the next step in industrial evolution by making use of new cyber-physical systems.
Find out more at the Sandvik Coromant Coroplus website.