#smart-factory-ki 06.03.2025

MiCL, developed by Mingzhi Technology, enables intelligent core production

©Mingzhi

Smart plant control is the cornerstone of smart manufacturing. Conventional control methods, which rely exclusively on programmable logic controllers (PLCs) and human-machine interface (HMI) systems (HMI), are limited to the basic functions of core shooting machines and are unable to support the collection and management of process data.

With the development of the Mingzhi Intelligent Core Control System (MiCL V1), Mingzhi Technology has adopted an innovative approach to improving the intelligent control of core shooting machines. By monitoring and analysing process data, MiCL V1 enables intelligent control of core production, optimises and standardises production processes, provides valuable operational and management data for various plants, and facilitates adaptive control through networked settings. This advanced system meets the foundry industry’s growing demand for digitalisation and intelligent solutions.

Mingzhi Program

To advance intelligent production control for core shooting machines, Mingzhi Technology invested heavily in the research and development of both software and hardware. This investment led to the development of MiCL V1, a system designed to improve precision and efficiency in core production.

Hardware features:

  • Industrial computer
  • Fingerprint module
  • User-friendly interface These components interact with the factory’s ERP/MES systems and equipment sensors to collect, calculate, analyse and store process signals and data.

These components work seamlessly with ERP/MES systems and equipment sensors to capture, process, analyse and store operational data and signals.

Software features:

The MiCL V1 software is based on a powerful database system and comprises the following functional modules: User authorisation management:

  • Equipment operation
  • Equipment management
  • Process management
  • Remote management
  • Smart production
  • Information transfer
  • Reporting

Overview of system functionality

MiCL V1 offers eight key functions to improve core production:

  1. Human-machine interface:

This function supports four user roles – operators, technicians, maintenance staff and managers – with fingerprint-based login for role-specific access and precise control over the operation and settings of the devices. The user interfaces for each role are shown here: Technician interface

  • Connecting the machines:

Uses core box recognition to automatically import the process parameters defined by the technician, thereby ensuring consistent and stable production.

  • One-click operation:

Guides the operator step-by-step through a process wizard covering start-up checks, cleaning and shutdown, thereby improving user-friendliness and operational efficiency.

  • Operating parameter settings:

Enables the setting and maintenance of key parameters, including operating conditions, core-making processes, core box usage records, fault logs and data on the service life of wear parts, to ensure accurate and comprehensive record-keeping.

  • Intelligent Production Management:

Integrates advanced control functions, such as raw sand temperature control, blow-out temperature management and automatic adjustment of curing parameters, to improve production efficiency and intelligence.

  • Remote Control and Maintenance:

Enables maintenance staff to remotely access on-site control systems for troubleshooting, system upgrades and the rapid restoration of equipment functions.

  • Online documentation:

Provides easy access to operating instructions and maintenance manuals, enabling operators and technicians to quickly access the necessary documentation.

  • Data management:

Provides ERP/MES data interfaces with reporting and analysis functions for staff attendance data, operating times, production output, energy consumption, fault diagnosis and process parameters. Managers can receive updates on production shifts via text message to improve monitoring.

Conclusion

The Mingzhi Intelligent Core Control System (MiCL V1) effectively integrates people, machines and data processing, thereby significantly improving the precision, efficiency and environmental sustainability of core production facilities. This system is at the forefront of driving environmentally friendly, highly efficient and intelligent production within the industry, offering customers exceptional solutions for the modernisation and transformation of their core production processes.

Looking ahead, Mingzhi Technology plans to further develop the system with adaptive customisation and control capabilities for various working environments, laying the groundwork for MiCL V2 and the full realisation of AI-driven production control.

For further information about MiCL and our intelligent production solutions, please contact us at: info.leipzig@mingzh-tech.eu