Internet of Tools
IoT usually stands for Internet of Things. At ZOLLER, we like to think of it as the Internet of Tools. With the IoT platform »zidCode 4.0«, you can network your cutting tools with the processes in your production. Thanks to many output formats, »zidCode 4.0« is compatible with most CNC machine control systems.
With »zidCode 4.0«, you'll understand all the prerequisites to make data, such as tool life, available at every level of a production process to digitally record the entire life cycle of a tool.
Internet of Tools
IoT usually stands for Internet of Things. At ZOLLER, we like to think of it as the Internet of Tools. With the IoT platform »zidCode 4.0«, you can network your cutting tools with the processes in your production. Thanks to many output formats, »zidCode 4.0« is compatible with most CNC machine control systems.
With »zidCode 4.0«, you'll understand all the prerequisites to make data, such as tool life, available at every level of a production process to digitally record the entire life cycle of a tool.
The large icons in the main menu of the touch panel take you quickly and directly to the desired function.
For scanning the tools on the CNC machine, »zidCode 4.0« shows you a digital set-up sheet. Each scanned tool is visually labelled.
Once all the tools have been scanned, all you have to do is touch your specific button. The tool data is immediately prepared for the control system and transferred to the CNC machine without errors.
Simple to learn, easy to use
Functionality and usability go hand-in-hand when it comes to the »zidCode 4.0«. The intuitively designed user interface makes it simple and easy to transfer tool data to your CNC machine.
1/6 – Incoming order
ZOLLER software solutions easily find their application in order creation. Orders are either created directly in ZOLLER TMS Tool Management Solutions, or you can import existing orders from your ERP system. The orders, including tools, fixtures and test equipment, can be assigned to the machines where the setup effort is low.
2/6 – CAD/CAM
Once the order is loaded, your CAM specialists create the corresponding NC program. ZOLLER offers interfaces to almost all CAM systems. Benefit from up-to-date tool data and transfer the required tool list in the form of a setup sheet directly into the TMS Tool Management Solutions software. The user will find the familiar CAM tool structure in the ZOLLER TMS software.
3/6 – Storage
With the help of ZOLLER storage cabinets, you efficiently prepare everything you need to complete the workpiece: all tools of the setup sheet including individual components, fixtures and measuring equipment. Thanks to ZOLLER smart cabinets and tool management software, it couldn't be more simple.
4/6 – Tool presetting
Once the tools have been set up, the order is passed on to the ZOLLER presetting and measuring machine. Here, all tools are measured according to the setup sheet and the data is transferred to the machine tool. With the »zidCode 4.0« software module, you scan the tools of the entire setup sheet one after the other. The measurement runs fully automatically with a CNC measuring device.
5/6 – Production
The tool data is transferred to the machine in the appropriate format for the machine control and the components of the order are manufactured. Tool life can be written back to the ZOLLER TMS software after the job. In the event of tool breakage, tools can be quickly prepared and easily replaced.
6/6 – Delivery
With delivery, the order is completed and can be stored in the software. The tools can be stored again in ZOLLER's tool storage system or marked to be regrinded or scrapped.
Complete tool performance
The »zidCode 4.0« is the networked communication platform that records, manages and provides tool data in a closed process. As soon as data like tool life is recorded in your processes, it can flow directly into that tool's data record.
Using ZOLLER software tools, the »zidCode 4.0« provides a real-time overview of tool performance in your production. This gives you more complete information for tool planning, managment and production.
Small investment for a huge return
With the »zidCode«, you have all the elements for success at your fingertips. You gain security, accuracy and reliability, save time and make it easier for your employees to transfer data to the CNC machine. Even a lean, basic setup will quickly see these benefits.
ZOLLER makes digital progress easy.
Small investment for a huge return
With the »zidCode«, you have all the elements for success at your fingertips. You gain security, accuracy and reliability, save time and make it easier for your employees to transfer data to the CNC machine. Even a lean, basic setup will quickly see these benefits.
ZOLLER makes digital progress easy.
Ready for automation
Since the »zidCode 4.0« prepares your production processes for dynamic management of tool data, you'll have the foundation in place to incorporate even more automation!
The »zidCode 4.0« is the ideal basis for quickly integrating ZOLLER automation solutions into your production process later on. With ZOLLER, you'll always stay technologically up to date.
Ready for automation
Since the »zidCode 4.0« prepares your production processes for dynamic management of tool data, you'll have the foundation in place to incorporate even more automation!
The »zidCode 4.0« is the ideal basis for quickly integrating ZOLLER automation solutions into your production process later on. With ZOLLER, you'll always stay technologically up to date.
Technical data
Dive into the details for interfaces, requirements and software.
Requirements
- CNC machines with USB connection and a power access directly at the machine.
- ZOLLER presetting and measuring machine with image processing »pilot 4.0« as of version 1.18.7
- Post-processor in »pilot 4.0«
- Marking of tool holders with 2D coding: either by laser marking, with the practical and enormously robust »idLabel« from ZOLLER or the ZOLLER »idChip«
Interfaces
The data transfer takes place via an exchange directory located in the network. For this purpose, our software uses a post-processor to generate a required output format. You can find all available output formats here. Your machine is not listed? Reach out to us at sales@zoller-usa.com or call 734-887-0479 and we will get the tool data onto your machine.
Installation
- Barcode reader 1D/2D per CNC machine
- »zidCode 4.0« unit, including »zidCode 4.0« software package
- USB stick (documentation, manual, training videos)
- Cable kit (ethernet, power cable)
- Software module »zidCode 4.0« for installation on existing ZOLLER presetting and measuring machine
- Windows services for installation on a server or PC, ZOLLER WebService and »zidCodeService«
