German sawing machine and storage system manufacturer
Kasto has introduced a new generation of controls for its saws. It combines modern operating principles with practical features, allowing both experienced operators and first-time users to operate the machines quickly, safely and productively.
The new control is being implemented in the KASTOwin bandsaw series first and will later be extended to other saw models. The optimised software architecture provides significantly shorter program loading times, quicker response to inputs and increased machine availability.
The core element of the new control system is a well-structured dashboard that visually presents key metrics, including runtimes, downtimes, current job orders, and machine status. Operators can quickly see which jobs are currently running, flexibly rearrange job orders, and toggle between different views during cutting. The interface includes function windows that can be viewed simultaneously, along with context-sensitive help to reduce the number of clicks needed and significantly speed up operations.
A key feature of the new control system is Simple Mode. It simplifies the display to focus only on essential information and guides novice users safely through the sawing process. Different user roles ensure that operators, supervisors and maintenance personnel receive only the information relevant to their specific tasks. Additionally, users can customise individual settings, such as language, units of measurement and preferred analytics, which greatly simplifies initial training.
A preloaded material library matches various material profiles with cutting feed and speed and users can retrieve previously-entered material data at any time, helping to reduce entry times for job orders. A cutting plan facilitates quick, intuitive creation of multiple sawing jobs, accommodating various cut lengths and order complexity. Each cutting plan is assigned to a specific order, ensuring clear organisation and traceability throughout production.
Additionally, individual process parameters can be set for each job, allowing precise customisation to meet specific requirements and maximise efficiency. When used in conjunction with the Optisaw Light software module, the cutting plan reaches its full potential.
The solution automatically assigns all orders to the available bars, taking into account the required cut lengths while optimising the sequence and placement of cuts. This intelligent optimisation minimises waste and maximises material usage, resulting in lower material costs and promoting more sustainable and resource-efficient production.
The software package also now includes a new cycle stop feature, allowing jobs to be paused at specific points and resumed exactly where they left off. Interruptions are clearly displayed and users can continue from the pause point without needing to re-enter any data.
The control allows precise fault diagnosis in the event of a malfunction. It clearly identifies whether the issue is mechanical or electrical and whether it originates from the machine itself or its material input / output system, greatly speeding troubleshooting. Additionally, comprehensive analysis functions offer transparency regarding runtimes, downtimes and the condition of the saw band, information that is crucial for effective shift planning and reliable unattended operation.