Understand best practices, and learn more about Helios features and updates by browsing through the most frequently asked questions.
What is machine learning?
Machine Learning refers to the ability of computer algorithms to collect and use data to make themselves “smarter.” In other words, machine learning algorithms make increasingly accurate predictions and decisions. By learning from anomalies in the machine’s operational data correlated with downtime events, Helios can provide you with the analytic insights and maintenance predictions you need to increase your equipment uptime and keep your box plant running at peak productivity.
How is machine learning different from AI?
Artificial Intelligence (AI) plays a variety of roles. It is inextricably linked to the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) and propels industry 4.0. Machine Learning (ML) is one of the most common subsets of AI. Machine learning is commonly used in manufacturing to power predictive analytics, predictive maintenance, and automated processes, all of which help make plants more efficient, profitable, and safe.
What are the most common anomalies/failures detected?
Helios can track a wide range of failures, from minor anomalies to major downtime events. The most common of these include operational, tooling, and mechanical.
How long does it take to set up Helios?
Setting up Helios is fast and easy. The Helios gateway is simply attached to your existing equipment cabinet in order to create a connection to your machine’s PLC to supply data to the Helios dashboard. Your interactive dashboard is accessible across multiple devices, allowing you to monitor your operation even when you’re not on the production floor.
How long before Helios provides ROI?
The actual payback period will vary depending on the operation. Helios is a machine learning system, and the more data it collects, the more insights it can provide for your corrugated equipment. Depending on an individual plant’s efforts to mitigate the downtime Helios predicts, many box plants can expect to see results in the first quarter after Helios is installed. Calculate your potential ROI using our simple ROI calculator, and learn how Helios can impact your operations by scheduling a remote demo today.
How long does Helios take to log anomalies?
Helios starts collecting data and analyzing the operation of your corrugated machines as soon as it’s configured. As a machine learning tool, there is a “burn-in” period where the Helios Machine Learning models are analyzing the data and determine the expected values for standard operations. This burn-in period can differ somewhat, but usually takes an average of 30-60 days. Short on time or labor? Contact [email protected] to inquire about remote monitoring and event logging services.
What machines can Helios support?
The platform is OEM-agnostic and engineered to provide corrugated manufacturers access to robust, actionable insights into the performance of their machines — enabling minimized downtime, optimized maintenance schedules, and maximized profit. Helios works with a wide spectrum of corrugated converting equipment, primarily rotary die cutters and flexo folder gluers. Helios will also be launching a sensor package add-on soon to support older legacy equipment. No matter the size of your operation, all machines on your production floor can be grouped into one dashboard.
Does Helios void the warranty on my machine?
No. Helios simply pulls data by connecting to the PLC on your equipment. Dala loggers, like Helios, have been installed on industrial machines for decades.
What about the older machines in my fleet?
Most modern PLCs provide 2,000-5,000 data points that Helios can ingest and analyze. If you’re concerned about whether or not Helios will be able to pull data from your specific corrugated converting machine, contact [email protected] about solutions available for retrofitting your older equipment with sensors.
How much does Helios cost?
Helios comes in three pricing tiers. Please visit here for more information on pricing and what’s included in each plan. Already leveraging a business analytics tool? Contact [email protected] about integrating your existing systems with Helios machine learning and predictive analytics via the Helios API.
Where does data from Helios go?
We use encryption when data is being transmitted between sources as well as when it is at rest in the database. This is done so that no matter when or where in the process data is seen or accessed, without the encryption key, it means nothing to a third party. Helios does not use customer data for any other purpose than to serve it directly back to them by increasing the uptime and efficiency of their corrugated operation. Helios employs a CREST-certified security scanner that scans our entire cloud on a daily basis for over 10,000 vulnerabilities.
Does Helios replace the need for operators?
No, Helios does not replace the need for an operator. In fact, Helios works with your operators to make sure they are gaining and leveraging insights from thousands of data points in a fast and digestible fashion. The insights and information gained through Helios are delivered to operators and technicians so that they can perform their jobs better and more efficiently.
Does Helios perform maintenance on my machines?
No, Helios does not fix or perform maintenance on machines. Helios monitors the health and status of converting equipment, suggests optimal maintenance intervals, and predicts failures before they happen to increase uptime in box plants.