MAR9691Q2 - red meat HMI iPad app

Summary

Background
An important potential barrier to adoption of new technologies is the remote locations of processing facilities. However, development and wide adoption of WiFi, internet connectivity, wide spread use of smart-phone and iPad handheld devices, and cost effective data communications interfaces provide opportunities for improved remote support.  
Research
Under projects P.PSH.0612 and P.PSH.0625, this initiative developed remote technology support tools connecting remote location automation systems with one equipment manufacturer (MAR).  The systems provided direct access to robot control systems and logic controllers and area cameras. A second solution provided access to control systems via iPad applications, allowing equipment manufacturers and processing production staff to remotely and conveniently access fault and production statistics.
The remote support tools were installed and tested under project P.PIP.0326 and project P.PSH.0642.  This provided Gundagai Meat Processors (GMP) with 12 month post warranty MAR technical support for their recently installed robotic technology solutions. During this period MAR:  
Conducted multiple service visitsInstalled and utilized MAR remoteProvided GMP with MAR service tool (iPAD) and continued to develop APP's for the iPAD to be used for maintenance and service purposes.Engaged GMP technical and maintenance staff so as to build capability on-site and allow long term internal GMP support of automation technologies.