One of the biggest advantages of using cloud-based IT systems is that it allows access to company data from anywhere, at any time and using any device. Until recently this was not possible, since the information was generated, stored and consumed in the work centers. Lantek’s new value proposition is based on cloud solutions and aims to solve this problem.
In this new paradigm, information is still mostly generated in the work environments, but now, the storage and consumption of this information is done in the cloud. This synergy between environments is known as a hybrid cloud which requires the local infrastructure and cloud infrastructure to be connected, creating a secure communication channel.
Connecting both worlds
Sherlock is the solution offered by Lantek for secure data transfer from industrial plants to the cloud. This tool serves as a gateway between local information systems, both those of Lantek and other suppliers, and Lantek applications in the cloud.
Sherlock has been developed with the following objectives in mind:
Guarantee the integrity and security of the transported data.
Allow data transfer both in real time and in batches.
Ensure data retention in the event of communication errors.
Offer flexibility when adding new information sources or destinations.
Architecture and operation
Sherlock consists of two main tools, Sherlock Secure Connect, which is installed in each of the plants, and Sherlock Cloud, the central node of the cloud. Communication channels are established between the two components for the transfer of data in real time and for periodic batch transfers.
Users must install a Sherlock Secure Connect for each plant from which they want to send information, register it in Sherlock Cloud and configure the different data sources. Sherlock can be connected to an ERP/MES like Lantek Integra/Manager, to different types of machines, sensors, etc. Once configured, the system will take care of all the tasks autonomously.
Security, the key to success
Doubts and concerns about data security often arise during the digital transformation process, especially when we talk about the cloud. Like the rest of Lantek’s products, Sherlock’s main objective is to secure data on its journey from the plants to the cloud. For this purpose, data encryption techniques, communication isolation, password and user authentication encryption are implemented to guarantee the security and integrity of the information.
When a company decides to go ahead with the digitization of its processes, it tends to be aiming for greater visibility, traceability and optimization, which generally implies improvements in efficiency and decision-making.
Shop floor control is a key component that substantially affects the decision-making process of any company. In this article, we will analyze the scope of efficient resource management and its related activities to help companies successfully transition from planning to reality.
Material waste and a lack of agility in nesting or the nesting of parts are two of the most common problems faced by metal processing companies which slow down the company’s response time for its clients and make the process more expensive. This is due to them not using the appropriate technology in order to fully exploit each piece of sheet metal during the cutting process and/or the fact that this process is completed manually or using slower solutions. Equally, the work of the production engineer mustn’t be knocked as they are experts in the optimization of nesting and machining; the maximization of the margin for each production order received depends on their intervention.