The mScales digital weighing service can be complemented with a range of additional features to meet your business’s individual needs better. The automation system interface is an extra service that sends data from weighing operations carried out in code weighing or offline via an interface, for example, to process a loading or unloading permit. All functions are easily managed from a single weighing system.
In today’s production facilities, there is an increasing emphasis on self-service and efficiency, so it is essential that the driver can unload or load without the need for staff assistance. Ensuring that unloading and loading are done safely and without problems is also necessary. The automation system interface combined with mScales will significantly streamline the job.
How does the automation system interface work in practice?
With the automation system interface, loading or unloading authorisations are activated behind the digital code weighing, valid for the desired product and delivery at the specified time. The driver enters the input weight in his mobile interface before loading or unloading the load and then the item ID (e.g. PIN code). Once the authorisation is approved, the loading or unloading place is reserved for him for the agreed time. No separate devices or apps are required. The driver uses a browser-based program on his mobile device.
If the phone cannot be used, loading can also be done via a separate local interface. The system can also be linked to instructions for the driver on which loading point or warehouse to unload the load. During the process, the driver can add additional transport, unloading or loading information to the same transaction, e.g. an entry in the electronic transport document or for freight invoicing.
When everything is ready, the driver signs off the task and drives to the scales to do the final weighing. At the same time, the information is transferred to the customer’s business systems in real-time, and the status of the scales, for example, can be viewed remotely. This ensures that the right product is in the right place at the right time. mScales weighing service is available in nine languages.
“The technology behind the automation system interface is complex, but the interface and the process work smartly and straightforwardly. The application is browser-based and cloud-based. All output data can be imported to the mScales weighing service via an API interface. This allows the data, schedules and detailed instructions required for code weighing to be forwarded to shippers and customers. mScales transmits the data required for weighing and automation,” says Matti Wuollet, Key Account Manager for the mScales weighing service.
The benefits of automation system integration:
- The production plant can ensure the right product is in the right place at the right time.
- The driver does not need an RFID reader or other devices but uses a browser-based service on their mobile device.
- Data is stored in real-time.
- Smooth unloading and loading.
Guide: The benefits of digitalized weight-based material flows
The free downloadable guide explains the key benefits digitalization offers for industrial weighing.
We built a functioning automation system interface for Finnsementti
Our customer, Finnsementti, is an excellent example of a company that uses an automation system interface in its operations.
The challenge was an outdated equipment stock
Today’s customers demand fast delivery times, so Finnsementti’s plant needs to be quick and flexible. Finnsementti’s challenges included outdated scales electronics, the scales system, and associated peripheral equipment, such as ID readers and loading automation, which require resources to maintain and manage. Different sites had different processes, and change management was complex. Problems arose during peak and off-peak periods when deliveries were high, and data and equipment management was particularly demanding.
The solution: a modern automation interface
Finnsementti wanted to keep its system the same, as the company has an extensive ERP system globally, which would have been costly and complex to modify.
Together, our experts went through the ordering and delivery process, developed a new modern automation interface based on the standard solution, and made the change as easy and secure as possible for the customer.
According to Sales Manager Kari Kiiskinen, Finnsementti’s project had a tight schedule and a lot of work, so careful planning and scheduling were essential.
“All our projects always start with a kick-off meeting and careful planning. At the beginning of a project, it is important to discuss where everything starts and what the project aims to achieve. We write down use cases for the different process steps, model the technical interfaces, which help the different parties understand what steps are involved and where they want better solutions,” Kiiskinen sums up.
We started the project with a pilot site at one of Finnsementti’s sites, where the scales needed to be modernised anyway. Once we got the practices working in one location, we transferred what we learned to other locations where the company operates. The project focused on learning by doing and good practices: with the customer, we learned from old ways of doing things and replaced them with new, more efficient ones.
As a result of the project, we digitalised Finnsementti’s entire weighing service, connected the truck scales to the cloud and developed the automation system’s interface module to a new level. Now, mScales is in use at all Finnsementti plants at the factory sites and the seven terminals.
We offer you a digital weighing service and automation system in one package – along with expertise in consultative design and high-quality equipment guaranteed to work.
Contact one of our experts, and let’s discuss more!
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