Commonly Asked Questions

Pick a category

General

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.

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.

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.

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.

Setting up 20-30 machines typically takes 2-4 days. Access to the software platform is possible within 2-4 days with minimal configuration.

Serious clients can anticipate double-digit improvements in efficiency or output within 2-3 months.

Yes, we can connect energy meters or use current transducer sensors to measure energy consumption and improve efficiency.

Consider using TV screens as digital performance dashboards and computer stations or tablets to improve visibility and engagement.

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.

Yes, our system is designed for simplicity, allowing self-implementation for scalability.

Industries Served and Machines Connected

We’ve partnered with manufacturing companies in diverse industries and successfully integrated machines, including older ones dating back to World War II.

Auk has experience in various industries, including:

  • Food & Beverages
  • Chemicals
  • FMCG
  • Automotive
  • Metal Fabrication
  • Injection Molding
  • Medical Devices
  • Semiconductors and Electronics
  • Packaging
  • Woodworking
  • and more.

Auk’s technology is versatile and compatible with a wide range of machines, both old and modern, from various manufacturers.

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.

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

Yes, our software is continuously evolving with regular updates and new features to remain current and aligned with industry standards.

Yes, we can integrate with various software systems, including ERP, MES, visualization, and IoT platforms through APIs.

Cloud technology offers easy updates, quick feature additions, instant notifications, efficient support, and eliminates the need for physical servers.

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 on Microsoft Azure.
  • Regular Testing: Third-party Vulnerability Assessment & Penetration Testing (VAPT) for strong security.

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.

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).

No, this function is intentionally disabled due to safety concerns. Enabling remote control could pose industrial hazards and potentially void machine warranties.