page 2 of 3 2007.03.06

A leader, not a follower

Everything under control
As we have said, the BTSR range encompasses yarn break sensors, quality control sensors, and yarn feeding devices.
The latest challenge taken up by BTSR has led it to develop a new line of products to complement its core business. This line not only simplifies and optimises the production process of the single machine, but also allows overall control of the production process throughout the factory (“Plant Management”).
One of the aims of the PC-Link software products is to help the operator to use BTSR sensors. In this way, the production lines can be monitored using a normal PC, instead of using the Smart system based on the connection of sensors to terminals located on the machine.
“In the sector of quality control, the possibility of having complete control over work flows and data generated is the ideal solution for textile manufacturers” says Alessandro Trotti, International Sales Manager of BTSR. “Being so flexible, the system can collect more data than other similar systems: this is very important, for example, in tension control, in twist analysis, and in the control of so-called yarn clearers” .
Initially, the requests were highly heterogeneous, making it difficult to develop a program able to meet the full range of requirements. Following careful analysis of the feedback received from customers directly and from OEMs, a software package was put together that really responds to the demands of the market.
One of the particular advantages of using a personal computer derives directly from the simple and intuitive Windows-based graphic interface: indeed, when managing a considerable number of machines, and setting different variables on each of them, it becomes essential to use software that is simple in its interface but complete as regards its operating functions. The progress of production on one or more machines can be managed in real time also thanks to the use of synoptic tables, graphs and A/D measurement instruments.
The data acquired can be stored in a production database that can be consulted in a flexible manner and guided in order to give statistical indicators of production quality and efficiency.
In just a few seconds one can obtain all the information relating to a certain machine, thereby making it possible to optimise the sensor control functions installed. This, in turn, results in rapid ”tuning” which guarantees the best operating conditions for the specific application needs.
The statistical analysis of errors makes it possible to generate graphs and tables which give an even more immediate picture of the overall situation or of the situation regarding a single machine, and these data can then be readily passed on to other departments.
PC-Link comes in a number of different versions, depending on the sensors to be controlled: PC-Link Warp, Clearer, Twist, Tens and KTF. Using these different versions it is possible to manage different machines, each with their own needs and peculiarities. The result is a carefully targeted analysis and management of the data, in order to offer instruments better equipped to improve further the performance levels recorded by the production department.
PC-Link allows the management of a machine, whereas Plant Manager will oversee contemporaneously a large number of connected machines (up to a hundred). Particularly useful in medium- to large-size facilities, this system offers an at-a-glance overview of the situation that cannot be had using other, similar solutions.
In more general terms, the easy programming and high operating flexibility mean that the management of the machines becomes highly personalised, and covers the vast majority of the typical needs that emerge in this sector.
Strengthened by its considerable experience in this sector, BTSR has thus developed a solution that provides real answers to real needs, guaranteeing all companies – from small- and medium-sized operations to “giant” enterprises – a new instrument to help them rise to the challenges of an increasingly competitive market.