"Partners in THINC," a new concept of cooperation among the makers of manufacturing equipment and services was created in Charlotte, NC last May. With the Okuma THINCOSP control as the catalyst, over 20 partners agreed to this collaboration.
An industry push for open architecture, PC control in early 1997 became the catalyst for this partnership between Okuma America and Okuma Japan's Factory Automation Group. Unveiled at IMTS in 2004, the resulting THINC technology stands for The Intelligent Numerical Control.
Currently, nine full-time, Partner representatives reside at the facility to conduct research, develop new solutions, and work out real-world problems in real time. Even though some of the Partners are competitors,
such as ABB and Fanuc or Iscar and Sandvik, each works together in a noncompetitive environment to create the best manufacturing solutions for customers. Offsite Partners continue development and return regularly to implement new technology and assist customers who are visiting the facility.
Within the THiNC Center, Matrix software is integrated with the THiNC controllers throughout the manufacturing environment. The result is real time data exchange between Matrix and the machines. Using this integration, managers have instant access to accurate, reliable data including set up, run times, parts produced and more. With all of this data flowing directly into the Matrix from the THiNC machines, managers can monitor labor costs, material usage, inventories and much more, all while parts are still being produced. This empowers leadership to make better, more accurate decisions.
