Digitalization of existing machines

Easy Tool-ID 2.0

Tool identification using Balluff Industrial RFID increases production efficiency, as it makes incorrect tool allocation or missing tools a thing of the past. This enables optimizing the service time utilization of the tools. In addition, scrap and rework due to excessive use of tools are virtually eliminated. With Easy Tool-ID, Balluff has provided an affordable entry-level solution into tool management for a long time now. Version 2.0 has now been newly released on the market. Just like the previous version, it is convenient to upgrade and is characterized by being easy to install and configure. It features an additional touchscreen display and offers the user even greater convenience in practical operation as well as during configuration via web browser without intervention into the machine tool.

All this is required is a USB port (keyboard expander) on the machine tool and a presetter. The data is written via RFID technology from the presetter to the tool and then passed on through the Easy Tool-ID system to the machine tool. As a result, error-prone manual entries are eliminated. On the new 7" touchscreen display, all tool data is now displayed to the user in plain text. This ensures the correct overview. With Easy Tool-ID, the risk of data entry errors as well as set-up times are thereby significantly reduced. Alongside the new controller with touch display, the system consists of a tool stand with integrated read/write head, a processor unit and the power supply.

The solution's handling and functional principle could not be easier: At the tool presetter, each tool is measured and its data, such as diameter and radius, are written on the data carrier on the tool shank. The user brings the tool to the machine, loads it into the tool holder and presses a button. The system then emulates the key input and automatically reads the data with the Balluff Tool-ID through the keyboard interface to the machine controller. Manual, error-prone entry is thus eliminated. This means that even existing machines can be modernized and upgraded with a cost-effective tool ID solution.