A US company has released MTConnect + Google Glass, a free Glassware application that monitors machine tools using Google Glass.
Every department in a manufacturing facility will be able to use MTConnect + Google Glass – from the shop floor to the management suite.
A new machine operator watches YouTube training videos while at the machine, supplementing his training program.
Getting and sharing information on the machine and its processes would be as intuitive and non-threatening as using his smartphone or playing a video game.
An experienced machine operator sends an email to the maintenance staff as soon as he sees a problem.
The CEO travels the shop floor, getting accurate real-time machine data and comparing it to the company's accounting, quality control, sales and engineering data.
Project managers evaluate workflow and machine readiness before scheduling future work. They also access 100% accurate data and share information with their customers to ensure smooth delivery between vendors.
The maintenance staff becomes even more astute at monitoring machines and they respond quicker to problems, while developing stronger preventative maintenance programs.
With Google Glass, they can "see" instruction manuals overlaid on the equipment when installing or repairing machinery. The sales staff provides guided Google Glass tours, impressing prospects with the capabilities of the facility and helping them visualise the final product.
Data streams from MTConnect Agents directly to Google Glass. Google Glass recognises the machine tool, grabs appropriate information from MTConnect and parses the MTConnect stream to display it in a user-friendly way for the Google Glass wearer.
The user will be able to view the following information from the MTConnect-compatible equipment: Power Status, Emergency Stop, Alarm/Messages, Block, Controller Mode, Line, Program, Execution, Path Feed-Rate, Spindle, Axis Positions, Spindle Overrides, Feed-Rate Overrides, Machine Location, Part Location, and Current Part Status.
Also, if there is a camera inside the machine, Google Glass will stream the video to the user and overlay the machine data so the user can compare, analyse and make quick decisions. The user could record and share this data seamlessly with all appropriate parties.
MTConnect + Google Glass is being offered by Indiana Technology and Manufacturing Companies.