Nexeed Cycle Time Assist: Configuring PLC Diagnostics

Brian Holt2 min read
Application NoteBosch RexrothData Acquisition
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Nexeed Cycle Time Assist records part-cycle data from the PLC, displays it on the machine user interface, and provides detailed recordings for diagnosing cycle-time deviations. The application runs through a web browser on devices connected to a ctrlX CORE controller.

Confirm System Prerequisites

Verify the required platform, applications, and license before configuration. The available evidence identifies the following prerequisites but does not specify compatible versions for components other than ctrlX OS.

Requirement Specified item
Operating system ctrlX OS 1.20
Controller ctrlX CORE
Control application PLC App
Engineering application Nexeed Cycle Time Assist Studio
Platform components System Apps and Licenses
License Data Layer License

Configure Part-Cycle Recording

Cycle Time Assist derives the part cycle from PLC data and presents it on the machine user interface. Setup is performed entirely through the application's web interface, so use a browser on a device connected to the ctrlX CORE controller.

  1. Confirm that ctrlX OS 1.20 and the listed applications and license are available.
  2. Open Cycle Time Assist from a browser on a device connected to the controller.
  3. Use the web interface to set up part-cycle recording from the available PLC data.
  4. Run the machine and confirm that part-cycle results appear on its user interface.

Diagnose Cycle-Time Deviations

Configure detailed machine recordings to start at adjustable times when more resolution is required. These recordings capture machine activities ranging from individual-device movements to communication times with other IT systems.

Review the top-10 cycle-time-eater view to locate devices associated with a deviation. Treat the ranking as a diagnostic lead, then inspect the identified devices for wear or incorrect operation before selecting a countermeasure.

Export and Verify Diagnostic Data

Cycle Time Assist can automatically export detailed recordings as XML or JSON files for integration with other data-processing systems, including cloud-based big-data applications. Verify the deployment by confirming that the displayed part cycle follows production, a configured detailed recording contains device and communication activities, the top-10 view identifies contributing devices, and the selected XML or JSON export is produced.

FAQ

What does Nexeed Cycle Time Assist read from the PLC?

It uses PLC data to record the part cycle and displays the result on the machine user interface.

What ctrlX OS version does Cycle Time Assist require?

The stated prerequisite is ctrlX OS 1.20 on a ctrlX CORE controller, together with the PLC App, Nexeed Cycle Time Assist Studio, System Apps and Licenses, and a Data Layer License.

Can Cycle Time Assist export cycle-time diagnostics?

Yes. It can automatically export detailed recording data in XML or JSON format for integration with external data-processing applications.

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