Machine data acquisition vs. operating data acquisition

OEE Dashboards: 4 Examples with Excel, PowerBI, Grafana & Co.

Julius Scheuber

Julius Scheuber

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13.05.2024

13.05.2024

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Story

Story

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5

Minutes read

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Machine data collection (MDC) and operational data collection (ODC) both help to make production processes more efficient and transparent. 

Although both systems aim to collect and analyze important data, they differ in terms of their specific functions and applications. 

The following presents a detailed comparison between machine data collection and operational data collection.



Machine Data Collection (MDC)

Machine data collection specifically refers to the collection and analysis of data generated directly by machines and equipment during the production process. This type of data collection is technically oriented and aims to monitor the condition and efficiency of machines. 

Main Functions of MDC:

  • Performance Monitoring: Capturing machine performance in real-time, including speed, utilization, and efficiency.

  • Condition Monitoring: Monitoring the operating conditions of machines to detect wear or potential failures early.

  • Quality Assurance: Automatic control of product quality by monitoring machine settings and processes.

Operational Data Collection (ODC)

In contrast to machine data collection, operational data collection encompasses a broader range of data that includes not only technical information from machines but also organizational and personal data from across the operation. ODC systems serve to provide a comprehensive overview of all operational processes.

Main Functions of ODC:

  • Production Monitoring: Collecting data on production volumes, processing times, and material consumption.

  • Workforce Management: Time tracking for employees, monitoring attendance, and analyzing work productivity.

  • Cost Control: Determining the costs for specific production processes and the possibility for cost optimization.

Comparison and Integration

Although MDC and ODC have different focuses, they are often integrated in modern production environments to enable comprehensive data analysis and optimization of operational processes. The integration of MDC and ODC systems allows companies to not only monitor the technical aspects of their machines but also to make business decisions based on comprehensive data analyses.

Benefits of Integration:

  • Optimized Production Processes: By combining machine and operational data, process efficiency and product quality can be improved.

  • Proactive Maintenance: The combination of data from both systems can help to plan maintenance needs more precisely and minimize downtime.

  • Cost Efficiency: Detailed data analyses allow for more accurate cost allocation and control, leading to a reduction in production costs.

Conclusion

Machine data collection and operational data collection are two complementary technologies that are critical in modern industry. While MDC focuses on technical data from machines, ODC offers a broader view of the organizational aspects of the operation. The integration of both systems represents a comprehensive strategy to enhance efficiency, productivity, and profitability in production companies.

Become a machine data expert with our MDE series

In the last 5 years, we have digitalized the productions of over X companies. In our MDE series, we share practical knowledge for the implementation of machine data acquisition.

  1. Machine data acquisition basics

  2. MDE software comparison

  3. Options for analyzing machine data

  4. Why machine data acquisition fails in Excel

  5. Retrofitting MDE: Here’s how

  6. Machine data acquisition vs. operational data acquisition

Three top providers of OEE software in the German-speaking market

Now we want to compare three well-known providers of OEE software and illuminate their strengths and weaknesses. Keep in mind that there is no general "best solution", but rather, depending on requirements, some solutions fit better than others.

Overview

  • Calculates the OEE from machine data and thus enables more in-depth root cause analyses to improve the OEE.

  • Calculates the OEE using sensors, without machine data. Therefore, it is quickly ready for use, but no root cause analysis is possible.

  • Offers comparable OEE functions. However, often associated with extremely long implementation duration and costs.

Strengths

  • Can calculate OEE not only, but offers tools for root cause analysis and improvement

  • Machine data can also be used for further use cases (e.g. traceability)

  • Complete solution: no coordination of providers

  • Implementation in 2 weeks

  • Can calculate OEE not only, but offers tools for root cause analysis and improvement

  • Machine data can also be used for further use cases (e.g. traceability)

  • Complete solution: no coordination of providers

  • Implementation in 2 weeks

  • Can calculate OEE not only, but offers tools for root cause analysis and improvement

  • Machine data can also be used for further use cases (e.g. traceability)

  • Complete solution: no coordination of providers

  • Implementation in 2 weeks

  • Simple and quick setup

  • Comparatively inexpensive

  • Simple and quick setup

  • Comparatively inexpensive

  • Simple and quick setup

  • Comparatively inexpensive

  • If MPDV Hydra is already being used, no additional software needs to be purchased

Weaknesses

  • More expensive than a pure OEE tool

  • No capture of machine data, therefore no possibility for root cause analysis

  • Tool is limited to OEE calculation

  • Long implementation times

  • Often connectivity providers need to be purchased

  • Restricted OEE functions

  • No independent configuring and customizing