Industrial Machine Integration with ERP and WMS
Software integration · PLC and HMI · printers · traceability
Industrial machine integration connects production line equipment to the company’s management systems, such as ERP and WMS, so that product, lot and order data reach the machine with no manual data entry. TECMAES performs this integration on the machines it manufactures: the PLC identifies the product, the software integration queries the system, the printer produces the label with the correct data and the operation record goes back to the ERP.
- Label data sent by the ERP or WMS, with no manual entry
- Communication between PLC, HMI, printers and code readers
- Record of printed labels for traceability and audits
How machine and system integration works
The data flow is defined in each project, according to the customer’s process and management system. On a labeling line, the typical sequence is:
1. Production line
The product reaches the TECMAES machine, such as a label applicator or a Print Apply.
2. PLC and HMI
Sensors and readers identify the product, and the PLC sends the signal automatically.
3. Software integration
The integration queries the ERP or WMS and receives the data for that product, lot or order.
4. Printer and applicator
The printer produces the label with the variable data, and the applicator places it on the package.
5. ERP and WMS
The system receives the operation record, which keeps production traceable.
What can be integrated
ERP and WMS systems
Product code, description, lot, dates and order come from the management system, and the operation records go back to it.
PLC and HMI
PLC programming and HMI screens developed by the TECMAES Electrical and Automation team, with programs per product.
Label printers
Thermal transfer printers, such as Zebra, Sato, Videojet and Domino, and inkjet printers, depending on the project.
Barcode and QR code readers
Product reading to select the machine program and check the code on the applied label.
Signal lights and feedback
Signal lights, which show the operating status on the line, and feedback systems, depending on the project.
Statistical software
Statistical software for PC, to monitor the machine's production.
Integration is applied mainly to machines that print labels, such as the TM400 label applicator and the Print Apply, and to special projects for complete lines.
Automatic adjustment by code reading
On lines with several products, format changeover usually depends on manual adjustment. In special Print Apply projects with automatic adjustment, the reader identifies the product by its barcode, the machine loads the corresponding program and makes the adjustments on its own. Continuous adjustment via QR code adapts the application to each product, with no operator intervention.
- Automatic adjustments based on barcode reading
- Continuous adjustment via QR code
- Product changeover with no manual adjustment by the operator
Benefits for production, engineering and maintenance
Production
Eliminates manual data entry on labels and reduces product changeover time, with less rework from incorrect labels.
Engineering
Integration is defined in the machine design by the same team that develops the mechanics, the electrical system and the automation.
Maintenance
A single supplier is responsible for the equipment and the automation, with technical support and spare parts made in Brazil.
Quality and traceability
Each printed label is recorded with product and operation data, which makes audits and quality analyses easier.
How TECMAES runs an integration project
With more than 900 special projects delivered, TECMAES develops the mechanics, the electrical system, the automation and the software integration in its own factory in Ourinhos, São Paulo, Brazil. The integration project follows these steps:
- 1. Assessment: engineering evaluates the process, the machines on the line, the label data and the management system in use.
- 2. Design: definition of the data flow between machine and system, the label layout and the programs per product.
- 3. Development: PLC, HMI and software integration programming at TECMAES.
- 4. Factory acceptance test (FAT): the customer validates the machine in operation at the TECMAES factory before shipment.
- 5. Installation and start-up: installation, fine-tuning and technical support on the customer's line.
Frequently asked questions
What is industrial machine integration?
It is the connection between production line equipment and the company’s management systems, such as ERP and WMS. With it, the machine receives the data it needs, such as product code, lot and order, and sends back the operation record, with no manual data entry. It is one of the foundations of Industry 4.0 on the factory floor.
Which systems does TECMAES integrate with its machines?
ERP and WMS management systems, PLCs and HMIs, thermal transfer and inkjet label printers, barcode and QR code readers and statistical software for PC. The communication method is defined in each project, according to the system the company uses.
Does the integration work with the ERP my company already uses?
TECMAES engineering evaluates the company’s ERP or WMS during the assessment phase and defines the appropriate communication method for that system. Each integration is developed according to the project.
What data can be printed on the label?
The data comes from the management system and follows the layout defined in the project, such as product code and description, lot, manufacturing and expiry dates, order, destination and barcodes or QR codes.
How does automatic adjustment by barcode work?
The reader identifies the product, the machine loads the corresponding program and makes the adjustments with no operator intervention. TECMAES applies this feature in special Print Apply projects, with continuous adjustment via QR code.
Does integration help with production traceability?
Yes. Each printed label is recorded with product and operation data, which makes it possible to consult the production history in audits and quality analyses.
Does TECMAES work with line integrators?
Yes. In addition to the manufacturer that operates the line, TECMAES works with integrators who need labeling equipment with defined communication with the other systems on the line.
Want to connect your line to your ERP or WMS?
Tell us about the process, the machines on the line and the management system in use. TECMAES engineering will assess the integration and recommend the solution.