Best Manufacturing Software for KEPServerEX

The landscape of manufacturing is undergoing a significant transformation due to digitalization, compelling companies to adapt swiftly and smartly to unforeseen shifts while managing reduced lead times and fulfilling customer expectations. This pressure is not exclusive to large corporations; small and medium-sized enterprises also face similar hurdles. To address these challenges, Siemens has developed Opcenter APS (previously known as Preactor APS), which employs sophisticated algorithms to align demand with capacity, thus producing feasible production schedules. These tools are versatile enough to support long-term strategic planning extending over months or years, as well as medium-term tactical planning that spans several weeks, and can also handle intricate sequencing and scheduling tasks. Siemens Opcenter APS is designed for immediate installation and can be tailored as needed, functioning independently for planning and scheduling, while also being compatible for integration with additional software solutions to enhance overall operational efficiency.

HighByte Intelligence Hub is an Industrial DataOps software solution designed specifically for industrial data modeling, delivery, and governance. The Intelligence Hub helps mid-size to large industrial companies accelerate and scale the use of operational data throughout the enterprise by contextualizing, standardizing, and securing this valuable information. Run the software at the Edge to merge and model real-time, transactional, and time-series data into a single payload and deliver contextualized, correlated information to all the applications that require it. Accelerate analytics and other Industry 4.0 use cases with a digital infrastructure solution built for scale.

Simcad Pro allows you to visualize, analyze, and optimize process flow systems within an interactive simulation modeling environment. Optimize, plan, optimize, and reorganize processes and procedures, while optimizing layouts, automation, scheduling, and facility improvement. Simcad Pro integrates historical and live data to offer the best simulation tool on the marketplace. Multiple industries can use these applications, including manufacturing, automation and logistics, distribution warehouse, food & beverage, and services. Multi-Threaded – 64 bit Engine Simulator-on-the-fly - You can make real-time modifications to the model as the simulation is running. You can animated the model in 3D, 2D, and VR using Ray Tracing, light effects, and shadows. Singular model building environment. Smart, Spatially Aware Agents. Sub-Flows. Collision Avoidance. Real-Time Connectivity. Spaghetti Diagrams and Congestion Analysis, Heat Maps Efficiency, OEE. Extensive reporting and analysis tools. Scenario Analyzer.

Predator DNC software is an industrial networking solution for connecting CNC machines, robots, CMMs, PLCs, laser markers, dot peen markers, tool presetters and test stands to the company network. Predator DNC is used for CNC programs, CNC variables, offsets, parameters, PLC registers and other production file formats. Predator DNC supports 50+ industrial communication protocols for dripfeeding, downloading, and uploading via parallel, RS-232, RS-422, Ethernet and wireless Ethernet.

Predator PDM, a paperless manufacturing-driven Production Data Management software, organizes and controls CNC Programs and Robot Programs. It also manages PLC Programs, CMM Programs and safety procedures. Predator PDM supports paperless shopfloor operation through integration with DNC and CNC Editor, Virtual CNC Editor, MDC, Tracker, and MDC. Predator PDM offers the right balance between flexibility, control, and accountability to make it easier to adhere to international standards such as AS9100 or CFR21 Part 11. Predator PDM is appreciated by quality personnel as it helps to ensure that quality priorities and change management are followed. This will help to avoid FDA, FAA, and DOD audit findings. Manufacturing Engineering and CNC programming personnel will enjoy the daily benefits of visualizing the manufacturing process and revision control of manufacturing files.

Predator MDC is real time machine monitoring software. It automatically collects, charts, and processes real-time shopfloor manufacturing data, including OEE, idle time and machine downtime. Predator MDC improves manufacturing by providing accurate shop floor productivity metrics and KPIs to help improve operations and make better decisions. Predator MDC keeps you informed about your manufacturing performance. It measures how efficiently your machines are used, the productivity of your workers and the production rates. Predator MDC allows you to compare continuous improvement results in lean manufacturing efforts. Predator MDC organizes real-time data into actionable metrics and KPIs for availability, quality, and performance. With just a few mouse clicks, you can access KPIs or metrics for specific machines as well as rolled up KPIs or metrics for entire departments across multiple plants.

Predator RCM software, a flexible robotic cell controller, scheduler, and robot controller, is designed to automate a Cell of CNC Machines. It also allows for part markers, cleaners, and other manufacturing equipment. Predator RCM allows for lights out operation and production, as well as flexible manufacturing and complete automation. Predator RCM schedules each robot to load and unload every CNC machine and CMM within the cell. Hands-free operation from raw material to finished products. Predator RCM supports a wide variety of pallets, tooling and RFID tags. You can increase the productivity of your CNC machines and reduce the labor/operator requirements. Predator RCM can robotically tend to any type of machine by using the right fixtures and robotic grippers. Common machine types include CNC machines and CMMs, CMMs, laser markings, part washers, and other manufacturing and inspection processes.

Predator Virtual CNC software simulates and verifies the operation of your CNC machines from your computer. Simulating the machining process offline can help you save time, money, scrapped parts, tool breaks, and machine crashes. It also improves safety and productivity. Predator Virtual CNC™, supports all standard vertical, horizontal, and complex machine configurations with 2-5 axis. Our flexible reverse post processors allow for user-definable machine tool configurations. This allows standard VMCs as well as HMCs to work with us. All standard milling, turning, and drilling cycles are supported. Advanced cycles, such as subs, macros and variables, logic codes, and trig codes, are all supported. Predator Virtual CNC is optimized to 3-axis surface milling and can handle large files without running out. Processing speeds of up to 3,000 blocks per minute are possible, while maintaining the required accuracy. Predator Virtual CNC 5 Axis also offers 3+2 support.

Predator Touch HMI, a touch-first, Human Machine Interface, is designed to replace shop floor bar codes readers, QR code readers, and hand-held terminals. Operators and machinists love the simplicity, while IT loves the ease of creating and deploying new applications. Predator Touch HMIs can be used on all Windows editions. Predator Touch HMI makes it easy to collect real-time data, do DNC, and use other applications that have a modern touch interface. Data collection is possible for machine downtimes and scrap reasons. Predator Touch HMIs are available for test stands, assembly lines, light towers and MDC to improve manufacturing processes. This is a great alternative for expensive PLC+HMI touch screen options. Many Windows tablets, laptops, and PCs can be used in harsh manufacturing environments. Create custom CMM/inspection front end client HMI apps for use with a variety of CMM/inspection applications.

Simio is a software solution focused on simulation, production scheduling, and planning, specifically tailored to leverage the object modeling approach. Its primary goal is to provide organizations, regardless of their size or sector, with tools for swift risk assessment and cost-saving opportunities. To cater to varying business requirements, Simio is offered in five distinct versions: Personal, Design, Team, Enterprise, and Portal. Additionally, there is an Academic Edition designed for the use of both students and educators. This diverse range of editions ensures that all users can find a version that aligns with their specific needs and objectives.

Aptean Factory MES (Manufacturing Execution System) harnesses real-time data from the shop floor to equip operators, supervisors, and executives with valuable insights and full transparency into production and quality, thereby enhancing plan achievement and overall equipment effectiveness (OEE). With options for both on-premise and cloud deployment, Factory MES modernizes outdated paper processes with intuitive technology, fostering continuous improvement and teamwork throughout your organization. By consolidating all your data into a single, customized ERP system designed specifically for your sector, you can boost visibility, drive efficiency, and expedite business growth. In the food and beverage sector, which presents intricate challenges, it’s crucial to utilize tailored solutions rather than relying on one-size-fits-all approaches. Ultimately, embracing this innovative system can transform your operations and position your company for future success.

PTC is enhancing its SaaS offerings for the manufacturing sector with the launch of Kepware+. This innovative tool centralizes remote configuration, enhancing visibility and boosting operational efficiency for IT/OT data. The Software as a Service (SaaS) model for industrial automation unlocks significant potential for large-scale management of industrial assets, allowing organizations to save both time and money while maximizing productivity. For enterprises that are increasingly connected, having a unified interface across the industrial automation ecosystem enables the remote and secure management of individual devices. Kepware+ serves as a streamlined management solution, delivering a cohesive and user-friendly configuration experience. Managing device connectivity and process control can often be complex and time-consuming; however, Kepware+ simplifies these tasks, making it easier to handle industrial connectivity on a larger scale. In contrast to other web clients and connectivity tools, Kepware+ is developed in tandem with the industry-renowned Kepware server, ensuring effortless access to remotely configure and administer connected equipment throughout the enterprise while fostering a more integrated operational landscape. With this advancement, PTC is positioning itself as a leader in the transformation of manufacturing processes.