ToolTracker - opportunities for digital tool tracking in process industry
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | RISE SICS AB - SICS Swedish ICT AB |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 800 000 |
| Project duration | September 2016 - October 2017 |
| Status | Completed |
| Venture | Strategic innovation programme for process industrial IT and automation – PiiA |
Purpose and goal
The project has fulfilled its goals of developing a second generation of a connected tool wall and test it in an authentic work environment. A new version of the ToolTracker system has been developed based on discussions with X-ponent and the other project partners concerning their needs. Visits to their sites have also been made. The prototype features cable antennae and support use of several antennae simultaneously, allows remote access, and has a web user interface that allows all basic functionality. The prototype has been tested in the workshop of Volvo Truck Center in Eskilstuna.
Expected results and effects
The work with the prototype has given a good sense of how a connected tool wall could function in an authentic work environment. Tests have shown the requirements on handling and use, precision in placement of tools, speed in tag reading etc. They have also served as a foundation for a concrete and fruitful discussion with project partners about their needs and the potential of the system. To us, this is a promising step toward future development of the prototype into a finished product.
Planned approach and implementation
The project plan has worked out well since the goals were achieved. However, more testing in authentic work environments had been preferable but could not be carried out due to technical problems. Through extra technical testing, the project has still been able to identify key steps in future development of the system.