DEK (dek.com) has developed machine interfaces to NPI and MES software tools from Aegis Industrial Software Corp. (aiscorp.com), allowing engineers using DEK screen printing platforms to reportedly maximise machine uptime, improve process monitoring and reduce operator mean time to assist (MTTA).
DEK screen printing platforms can now communicate using the Aegis xLink protocol, which allows users to reduce machine programming time for through-hole and surface mount production and inspection process machine interfaces using CircuitCAM, and to benefit from browser-based remote monitoring using iMonitor. The two utilities are part of Aegis' software for managing manufacturing information, which encompasses manufacturing activities from NPI to monitoring and optimising production.
CircuitCAM allows users to quickly create machine programs from CAD design information, working offline to maximise machine uptime. Enables generation of process routing, visual assembly documentation and reports from the input CAD information.
iMonitor collects, analyses and archives real-time data from the screen printer, as well as downstream assembly and test equipment. This information may then be used to improve quality and throughput, detect and react to problems before they escalate, analyse and prioritise problems for optimal corrective action, and to inform continuous improvement activities.