Real-time condition monitoring and process optimization through the iTENDO platform and an intelligent tool holder
Schunk iTENDO platform
In machining production today, tools and tool holders are mostly used without sensors. As a result, any quality defects caused by wear can usually only be detected after the machining process on the workpiece itself or through failures.
With iTENDO, Schunk has developed an intelligent tool holder with integrated sensors that can be used as a retrofit in existing machines. This enables the measurement of process stability and autonomous process optimization through real-time capable data communication, process analysis and parameter optimization.
In order to digitize, visualize, analyze and optimize the iTENDO data and the associated workflows, elunic was commissioned to contribute its experience in the IIoT area and the various IIoT platforms. elunic supports SCHUNK in the realization of the iTENDO application, from conception and design to development, operation and initial field tests. In order to achieve a quick start and the most efficient results possible, the elunic shopfloor.io-IIoT software modules were used in development, which provide a basis for white label IIoT solutions for machine manufacturers.
Added value through the Schunk iTendo platform
"elunic has enhanced our hardware and process expertise with their experience in developing IIoT software and architectures. By bringing together these different components and expertise, we were able to create a platform that will be used as the basis for further intelligent products and digital services from Schunk."
Dr. Martin May
iTendo apps and functions
Dashboard
The dashboard serves as an entry point into the iTENDO platform and overview of the most important data from the respective apps and selected tool holders.
Watch
Thanks to the Watch app, live data from the iTENDO feed and speed values can be viewed in real time.
Alarm
In the alarm app, limits can be set for notifications within a defined device hierarchy and error messages can be analyzed.
Record
The Record app can be used to record live data on the feed and speed values of the tool.
Trend
Recordings from the Record app are displayed within the Trend app to identify trends that lead to errors (such as drill breakages).
iTendo application examples
Drill sinks
The iTENDO monitors compliance with the surface quality when countersinking holes. In this application, monitoring the countersinking process is used for quality and process control and to document function-critical features.
Drill wear detection
A drill with a diameter of < 0.9 mm is difficult to monitor due to its low cutting forces. The challenge is to detect wear (wear trend) and replace the tool before it breaks.
Automated adjustment of brushes
The edges on a workpiece surface are deburred using a brush operation. As the brush wears, the infeed must be readjusted. The iTENDO enables automatic adjustment.
Adaptive vibration control
When milling a workpiece, the cutting conditions change depending on the changing workpiece contours. Chatter marks on the component can be avoided by adaptive control at the transition from different web widths.
- iTENDO
- Wireless digital data transmission
- icotronic communication module in the engine room
- icotronic control unit
- Real-time communication
- Machine control
- Process control and customization of the app (OPC UA communication-capable)
Further references
More about the reference project.
