Software Tools to increase the productivity of industrial equipment

Software tools can be as simple as a spreadsheet with some automation, or as complex as PLC code that interfaces directly with a database with real time interaction with  your Industrial Equipment control system. 

An open end wrench can be used to remove a fastener, however, add a ratchet mechanism to that wrench and removing the fastener becomes easier and faster.

A lot of automation falls in this category, whether it be on the plant floor, the maintenance shop, the office or corporate HQ. Custom tools can automate repetitive tasks. 

Instead of interpreting hand gathered production data every day, collect that data in a control system and dump it in a report that lands in your inbox every morning. 

Some tools are very specialized - when the directions start out with: Using a Ford 7520 muffler bearing extractor..... You probably need that tool. 

So, if your control system is saving a bunch of data on your server in a data stream.... you should probably have a software tool (Program or app) to present that data in a usable format.

this tool would probably have pre configured reports and views, and might run on your tablet or phone. 

Do you have data trapped on a server? 

your personal computer can be set up to perform periodic maintenance on itself - de-fragment storage media, compress unused files, etc.  Could your control system be doing the same for you?

• Event based reporting - Automatically configure and send a production report at the end of a shift or when an alarm happens. 
• Event based Email - Send an email when an alarm occurs or when a consumable is about to run out. 
• What information do you need?