function deployment) re-configuration interface that helps users to select the pertinent criteria for their applications. “It’s kind of like an Excel-based matrix indicating the parameters that you need to configure,” says Lee. “You check the appropriate boxes, and the software automatically suggests which tool you should use.”

Now that researchers have developed the software tools for both the National Instruments hardware platform and that based on PC104, an embedded computer standard, the research has entered its final phase, the commercialization phase. Automaker Toyota Motor Manufacturing North America Inc., based in Erlanger, Ky., is already using Watchdog Agent at its Georgetown, Ky. facility, as well as CIMS’ approach for monitoring surge compression ratios, to avoid bearing failures on compressors. Lee reports that more projects are also underway at Harley-Davidson Motor Co., of Milwaukee, General Motors Corp., of Detroit, Samsung in Korea, Komatsu in Japan, and GE-Aviation, of Evendale, Ohio.

These companies perceive their investments in condition monitoring and predictive maintenance as the natural next step after lean manufacturing. “They are already lean, so the next step is to improve the health of the equipment to prevent breakdowns,” explains Lee. “So zero breakdowns is the new thinking.” Supporting this strategy through condition monitoring is the healthy way to squeeze more profit from lean plants.

To see the accompanying sidebar to this story  - "Wireless Expands Applications for Condition Monitoring, please visit www.automationworld.com/view-2784 

For more information, search keywords “ condition monitoring ” at www.automationworld.com.