SmartBox™ Display for CNC Operators

The SmartBox is an interactive display module for the CNC Operator that attaches to the Spectrum WiBox™. The SmartBox is designed to provide maximum functionality and ease of use for CNC Operators to access the many functions of Multi-DNC™ software right at their CNC Control.

Highlights

• Extremely easy to use
• Works with Spectrum WiBox
• Fast response – the SmartBox is connected at 115,200 baud
• Works with ANY CNC control even those with Comment limitations
• Enables CNC Operators to send messages for Help
• Enables CNC Operators to send messages about CNC Alarms
• Enables CNC Operators to send messages about CNC Machine Idle conditions
• Enables CNC Operators to change selected Machine Connection settings at the Multi-DNC system
• Shows OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness) percentage if the Machine Monitoring option is purchased

SmartBox Main Menu displaying selectable functions and OEE% (click to enlarge)

All of the functions provided by the SmartBox are arranged in easy to navigate menus. There are 5 keys provided for navigation – Up – Down – Left – Right – Cancel – Enter. All SmartBox functions are accessible from these 5 keys.

The following functions are provided from the Main Menu

DNC Operations – Get a CNC program by browsing or by name. View a CNC program by browsing. Get a Job BASE Job by browsing or by name. Receive a File. Drip Feed Restart. Drip Feed Auto-Restart. Operator Login.

The SmartBox display showing file 1100.NC sending to a CNC Control (click to enlarge)

Request Help – Allows the CNC Operator to request Help by sending a number of pre-configured messages by e-mail directly from the SmartBox to one or more recipients. The pre-defined list of help types are Emergency, Setup, Tooling, Material, Programming, Electrical, Machine Fault and Power Problem.

(click to enlarge)

Messages – This function enables the CNC Operator to look through any Messages he has received from Multi-DNC or Job BASE workstations.

Machine Alarms – This function enables the CNC Operator to browse through a list of pre-defined Alarm conditions and choose the Alarm condition that matches the CNC Controls current Alarms. These Alarm conditions can be configured by the Multi-DNC user on a per machine basis.

Machine Idle – This function enables the CNC Operator to browse through a list of pre-defined reasons for the CNC Machine to be Idle. These Idle conditions can be configured by the Multi-DNC user on a per machine basis.

Settings – This function enables the CNC Operator to change several Settings back at the Multi-DNC system for his particular CNC Control, such as the Folder used for CNC Programs, the file extension used, and the file wildcard to filter what files are shown in the SmartBox display.

SmartBox displaying the scrollable view of a CNC file (click to enlarge)

The SmartBox is an extremely easy to use device that improves the productivity of the Multi-DNC system. It standardizes the operation of the Remote function for ALL CNC Machines in your shop. Because the SmartBox provides immediate interactive communication, it is an effective link between your CNC Operators and all Management personnel.