Commonly asked questions
Pick a category
About Auk
What is Auk Industries?
Auk Industries is an industrial IoT and software analytics company headquartered in Singapore, with offices in the United States and Italy. Its plug-and-play Edge IIoT devices and cloud platform give manufacturers real-time visibility of machine output, downtime and OEE – deployable in days, not months.
Who uses Auk?
Manufacturers in food and beverage, consumer products, electronics and semiconductors, metal processing, packaging and polymer molding – from single plants to groups such as Fonterra, SATS, Godrej, Mandom and Stallion. See the case studies for their results.
What does Auk do that a dashboard or an MES does not?
Auk is not an MES and does not replace one. It captures up to 10,000 readings a second at the edge, establishes product-specific baselines, and shows every loss – micro-stops, speed losses, changeovers, breakdowns – as it happens, so teams act the same shift. It integrates with ERP, MES and IoT platforms through APIs.
How quickly can we be up and running?
Setting up 20–30 machines typically takes 2–4 days, with software access in the same window and minimal configuration. Serious clients see double-digit improvements in efficiency or output within 2–3 months.
Is Auk secure?
Yes. Auk holds the ISO 27001 certification; data is encrypted in transit and at rest; edge nodes use AES-256 on a local radio network with the gateway as the only interface to the IP network; gateways authenticate with daily re-signed tokens over TLS; and independent vulnerability assessment and penetration tests are run regularly. Remote control of machines is deliberately disabled.
How can we try Auk?
Book a demo, or apply for a free pilot kit: a plug-and-play Edge IIoT device plus software access, with first insights within days.
General
What problem does Auk Industries address?
Auk Industries tackles critical manufacturing challenges such as labor shortages, supply chain disruptions, inflation, and the need for increased productivity. Our technology offers real-time visibility and actionable insights to track lost time, identify root causes, and improve productivity.
What are the business use cases?
Auk’s solution includes digital performance management, which optimizes efficiency and output in real-time. It also helps factories with asset efficiency optimization, quality planning, predictive maintenance, energy and sustainability enablement, material consumption analysis, and labor productivity improvement.
Is Auk primarily a software company, or do you offer hardware solutions as well?
We are primarily a software company, but we offer an Edge IIoT device for connecting to machines. We can also obtain data through standard protocols like OPC UA, making Auk’s hardware optional.
What sets Auk apart?
Auk’s Edge IIoT device is universally plug-and-play, and our software is ready on Day 1. We provide advanced analytics and proprietary algorithms for rapid ROI, improving efficiency within weeks.
How long does it take to set up the Auk system?
Setting up 20-30 machines typically takes 2-4 days. Access to the software platform is possible within 2-4 days with minimal configuration.
How soon can I expect to see results from implementing Auk's solutions?
Serious clients can anticipate double-digit improvements in efficiency or output within 2-3 months.
Can Auk's system also track energy consumption in my factory?
Yes, we can connect energy meters or use current transducer sensors to measure energy consumption and improve efficiency.
What additional hardware or infrastructure is recommended for a successful transformation?
Consider using TV screens as digital performance dashboards and computer stations or tablets to improve visibility and engagement.
Does Auk offer training for users?
We provide extensive support, including project reviews, performance analytics, and refresher/onboarding sessions. We also have a network of operations consultants for comprehensive guidance if needed.
Is it possible for us to implement the project and deploy the system on our own?
Yes, our system is designed for simplicity, allowing self-implementation for scalability.
Industries Served and Machines Connected
Which types of machines has Auk worked with? Does it include older machines?
We’ve partnered with manufacturing companies in diverse industries and successfully integrated machines, including older ones dating back to World War II.
Which industries has Auk worked with?
Auk has experience in various industries, including:
- Food & Beverages
- Chemicals
- FMCG
- Automotive
- Metal Fabrication
- Injection Molding
- Medical Devices
- Semiconductors and Electronics
- Woodworking
- and more.
What types of machines is Auk's technology compatible with?
Auk’s technology is versatile and compatible with a wide range of machines, both old and modern, from various manufacturers.
Can Auk's system operate effectively in varying environmental conditions?
Yes, our system operates effectively in varied environmental conditions. Our Edge IIoT devices are placed within machine control panels, ensuring protection alongside critical electronics like PLCs, relays, and VFDs. Our wireless mesh network for data transmission eliminates the need for extensive cabling infrastructure, ensuring device protection and system reliability.
What kind of data can be collected and analyzed using Auk's technology?
Auk’s technology functions much like a ‘Fitbit for machines,’ focusing on three primary categories of data:
- Output: This mirrors the concept of counting a person’s steps but applies it to machines by tracking the quantity of cycles or products produced within a specific timeframe.
- Health: Similar to monitoring a person’s heart rate, this involves tracking a machine’s operating parameters, such as pressure, rpm, temperature, vibration, and current. These parameters are invaluable for quality control and machine health monitoring.
- Sleep Cycle: This category includes metrics like uptime, downtime, idle time, and changeover time. It provides insights into the machine’s operational patterns and efficiency.
Product
Are Auk's solutions future-proof, and do you regularly update your software?
Yes, our software is continuously evolving with regular updates and new features to remain current and aligned with industry standards.
Can Auk's system integrate with other software systems we may already have in place?
Yes, we can integrate with various software systems, including ERP, MES, visualization, and IoT platforms through APIs.
Why does Auk use cloud technology, and what are the benefits compared to on-premises solutions?
Cloud technology offers easy updates, quick feature additions, instant notifications, efficient support, and eliminates the need for physical servers.
What security measures does Auk Industries implement to protect its IoT system and data?
Auk Industries safeguards IoT system and data with these measures:
- Encryption: Nodes use AES encryption in local radio networks with gateway IP interface, offering traffic control.
- Gateway Authentication: Daily re-signed JSON web tokens, RSA/EC algorithms, and TLS connections.
- Cloud Security: Default encryption for data in transit and at rest.
- Regular Testing: Third-party Vulnerability Assessment & Penetration Testing (VAPT) for strong security.
Is Auk considered a Manufacturing Execution System (MES)?
No, Auk offers a broader, transformative solution that enhances team communication and collaboration to improve productivity. While Auk is not classified as an MES, it easily integrates with MES systems to enhance manufacturing operations.
What is the installation process for Auk's system?
We offer two methods for acquiring machine data: Serial Communication (PLCs) and I/O Level (Sensors, Relays, Actuators). Our system is designed for easy integration and compatibility.
The Auk Edge IIoT device can also handle simple serial communications like RS232 (e.g., for weighing scales with datasheet documentation) and RS485 Modbus (e.g., for energy meters).
Can Auk's system be used to control our machines remotely?
No, this function is intentionally disabled due to safety concerns. Enabling remote control could pose industrial hazards and potentially void machine warranties.