Have you ever heard about tool cabinets with secured locking systems? If not, here is the chance to find out what these cabinets are and how they can help you if you have CNC machines. Industrial workers face many challenges in organizing compact tools to keep production sharp and precise. Since each tool is sensitive, they cannot be kept in the usual drawers or cabinets. Not only do they worry about losing them randomly, but they also have to worry about the risk of rust.
Employees in a CNC machine factory know the struggle of keeping CNC tools safe from unauthorized persons. These tools can get lost either because of workers’ negligence or theft. The reason could be any, and the solution is only one. Intelligent tool cabinets have different functions, which make tool organizing simple for all.
CNC tools need safe and pristine shelves for improved protection from various elements. It is about dust, moisture, and authorized access. The primary purpose of using intelligent tool cabinets for CNC tools is to protect each tool. Just some humidity and dust can cause a risk of rust and corrosion. Moreover, any unauthorized person cannot withdraw any CNC tool from it. The unauthorized access is the primary reason these cabinets are installed in factories.
CNC machines have specific users who replace their parts during operations and maintenance. Any unauthorized worker is not allowed to pick any tool from the cabinet. Therefore, the entire cabinet is locked all the time, and only authorized workers have access.
Different types of locking systems are available in these intelligent tool cabinets, depending on which companies they choose. The stricter the rules, the more stringent the authorization system. Here are some standard locking systems companies use.
1. Password System
It is a simple system with a keyboard inside the screen to allow users to type the password. It might take more time than other methods, but it is shared. However, it is less secure than others. Only authorized workers can access the CNC tools inside the cabinets through it. There is a problem with it, and that is the password leak. Any unauthorized person who finds out about the password will cause issues for others. Yet, it is one of the most common authorization systems worldwide.
2. RFID Card
This one is better than the previous system, which allows only those who have authorized cards. These cards have RFID chips that unlock and lock the intelligent tool cabinets. No other person can withdraw CNC tools from it unless they have an RFID card. It is a better mode because of the least risk of unauthorized access. Yet, if someone steals an authorized person’s card, a security breach is possible. Overall, RFID cards provide faster access than typing a password. Within a second, any worker can unlock the intelligent CNC tool cabinet.
3. Facial Recognition
Then comes the most advanced type, the facial recognition system. Only authorized persons can unlock these cabinets using CNC tools. No other person can access it since there is no chance of stealing a password or RFID card. This method is faster than RFID since workers only have to show their faces to the machine. In advanced economies, these versions are standard. They make accessibility fast and security high.
4. Coin Insertion
Then, there is a rare type of intelligent tool cabinet, which is hardly used now. The reason is its lack of security, as it requires only a coin, just like a vending machine. You insert a coin into it and select the type of CNC tool you need to withdraw. Since there are way better options, it is hardly used in the industry.
A touch screen helps with the password and other accessibility options. One prominent feature of these intelligent tool cabinets is the ability to choose what users want. All the user-friendly options are available, allowing users to unlock, select, and withdraw any CNC tool. The codes are based on the vaults’ serial numbers. Workers can choose the exact vault by selecting the right option. Then, they can safely open the vault to pick the tool they want.
This screen allows administrators to select more advanced options. These options include real-time data access and settings that enable advanced features. Since the Windows support system is installed, users find it easier to use.
In some intelligent tool cabinets, there are warning systems. They prevent any error or mistake from the user’s end. For example, if a worker forgets to shut the vault’s door, the screen will alarm it. Then, the user can shut the door properly to keep the CNC tool safe from any unauthorized access. This is why they are different from usual safes: They provide enhanced security and an improved organizing method.
An organization has ERP systems to ensure the proper flow of information and material. Likewise, these intelligent tool cabinets have real-time information about the tools. The machine will let the user know the tools that are unavailable in their vaults. It will show the entire slot where the tools are available and unavailable. This real-time information prevents any shortage of tools because only authorized persons know about it. When a CNC tool is withdrawn from this cabinet, the machine will show how many tools are left in it.
Also, an administrator will get complete data regarding the number of past accesses and the types of tools used. This information is available in real-time for administrators and authorized users. Thus, the chance of any error or loss of a tool is zero.
Some modern cabinets of CNC tools have more advanced features. They allow administrators and authorized users to have remote control. If a user is away from the machine and wants access, this machine will allow remote access. The remote-control system makes it more user-friendly, which prevents downtime in production. If an authorized employee is unavailable, an administrator can unlock the machine for a temporary purpose. It could also be about maintenance works requiring remote access for better results.
These cabinets are not ordinary cabinets since they have many features. From security to remote access, they make CNC tool organizing easier and safer. The tools remain safe from dust, moisture, and unauthorized access. Also, they have lots of space to keep every type of CNC tool for industrial use.
Will a Tool Cabinet Serve the Purpose as a Safe? Both are slightly similar if you look at their applications. However, there is a vast difference between them if you go deep. Not everything is an alternative to another just because they seem to function similarly. If anyone assumes a CNC tool cabinet can be an alternative to a safe, they must think again. It is not just about placing goods inside a box but also about authorizing only limited people. Moreover, in organizations, there is a concept of ERP systems. A tool cabinet for the arrangement of CNC tools has to align with the ERP system of its organization. On the other hand, there is a similar item, a safe. General safes might seem similar to this one, but there are lots of elements that make both different. Below are all the answers for you. There is a Big Difference Between Them Both are entirely different types of storage with slight similarities. If you assume a CNC tool cabinet can be used as a safe for precious goods, think again. Lots of reasons are there, and the most important thing is the purpose it serves. A tool cabinet, especially a digital one, works to store CNC tools in the right place. When workers access them, they will get the right CNC tool from the right place. There is more for you to know about it. One is Designed Especially for CNC Tools Organization Since a CNC tool cabinet is designed only for factory or workshop use, you can mix it with a personal safe. This primary difference makes things clear. These are large storage boxes with a locking system for authorized access only. Since a CNC machine has to perform many operations, it needs many tools. This can make you realize how many compartments would be in a CNC tool cabinet. Different types of cutters, millers, boring tools, and drills exist. This can lead to a feeling of mixing up and losing tools in a fast-paced operation. To prevent this risk, factories install these tool cabinets with locker systems. Workers must take responsibility for placing each tool back in the locker after using it. It Gives Authorized and Quick Access of CNC Tools to Users Since a personal safe is for individuals, these CNC tool cabinets are for multiple users. They are installed in workplaces to allow access only to authorized people. Since multiple workers exist in the workplace, only authorized ones can access CNC tools. Various types of identification methods are used in the cabinets, which make it easy for workers to access the tools. RFID cards, passwords, facial recognition, and other types of authorization systems exist. Thus, the risk of losing sensitive CNC tools in a busy workplace drops. The real-time data allows the administrator to keep track of user activities. It allows them to know the number of users who have withdrawn tools from the cabinet. Then, it also shows who has and when the tool was placed back in the cabinet. Addition of Digital Screen Another thing is using a digital screen in a CNC tool cabinet. It allows users to choose which box to open based on the type of CNC tool inside it. A security key is unlocked only through a password, RFID card, or facial recognition. These features are not usually found in a safe. Safes are simple, with a metal key or password in each. CNC tool cabinets have a single screen in the whole system, which helps users unlock the desired box. It also keeps a record of all the tools and their authorized users. One is for Industrial Use, and the Other is for Personal Use There is a clear difference between them, and here it is. A safe is mostly meant for a single person. On the other hand, a CNC tool cabinet is for multiple authorized workers in a factory. Its purpose is to keep the tools intact and safe inside the cabinet. Every time someone retrieves a CNC tool from it, they must place it back since the machine records every access. Why isn’t a CNC Tool Cabinet Not Suitable as a General Safe? It is a bad idea to use such a cabinet for personal items. Storing precious items inside it will not only make things vulnerable but also give others access. If others get access, there will be no more protection of precious items inside it. Since CNC tools are not as precious as gold or cash, they will be better in these tool cabinets. Here are some additional reasons that will further clarify your confusion. A General Safe Has an Opaque Cabinet If anyone can see what’s inside a safe, there is a higher risk of theft. Most CNC tool cabinets have transparent doors in each locker, which is terrible for personal items. Even if there are numerous cabinets, anyone can know which one has the most precious item. Then, taking out whatever is in that specific cabinet will not be challenging. However, a general safe has an opaque body made of unbreakable material. Neither anyone can easily break a usual safe nor see what’s inside it. At the same time, a CNC tool cabinet has a stainless steel body and glass front, which can only provide essential protection from mild risks. Its Glass is Not as Secure as It Should be for a Safe Likewise, its glass front is tempered glass with a higher thickness than usual glass. Yet, it is not good enough to protect precious items like gold, cash, and jewelry against theft. Anyone can break the glass to steal whatever is inside it. Since CNC tools are not at risk of being stolen unless someone is obsessed with CNC machines, this type of glass and SS body are enough for cabinets. These cabinets are only placed inside a workplace because of the risk of a tool shortage. Because of workers' negligence and forgetfulness, these cabinets are installed. All they do is let the users know which tools are available inside and which ones are missing. A CNC Tool Cabinet Gives Access to Multiple Persons Only authorized persons can access CNC tool cabinets. This feature creates some security levels, reducing the risk of tool shortages in the workplace. Since CNC operations are fast and continuous, workers must be cautious in the tool’s replacement process. Having the availability of tools in a secure cabinet will prevent any delay in the production process. Since each operation has specific requirements for tools, you can understand how sensitive this matter can be. Just a slight negligence can cause a tool to go missing, increasing the production cost. Such mistakes can disrupt the production pace, cost, and stability. Therefore, this tool cabinet is suitable only for CNC tools inside a factory. If anyone wants to store precious items in a safe, there are many other options, but not this one. Conclusion Now, you can say that the difference between a safe and a CNC tool cabinet is clear. They can not be compared since each has a separate purpose. Both carry goods inside, but the level of security and sensitivity are the primary elements here.
READ FULLFunction of Intelligent Tool Cabinet - Technical Knowledge Have you ever heard about tool cabinets with secured locking systems? If not, here is the chance to find out what these cabinets are and how they can help you if you have CNC machines. Industrial workers face many challenges in organizing compact tools to keep production sharp and precise. Since each tool is sensitive, they cannot be kept in the usual drawers or cabinets. Not only do they worry about losing them randomly, but they also have to worry about the risk of rust. Employees in a CNC machine factory know the struggle of keeping CNC tools safe from unauthorized persons. These tools can get lost either because of workers’ negligence or theft. The reason could be any, and the solution is only one. Intelligent tool cabinets have different functions, which make tool organizing simple for all. Multiple Lockers with Glass Shield CNC tools need safe and pristine shelves for improved protection from various elements. It is about dust, moisture, and authorized access. The primary purpose of using intelligent tool cabinets for CNC tools is to protect each tool. Just some humidity and dust can cause a risk of rust and corrosion. Moreover, any unauthorized person cannot withdraw any CNC tool from it. The unauthorized access is the primary reason these cabinets are installed in factories. CNC machines have specific users who replace their parts during operations and maintenance. Any unauthorized worker is not allowed to pick any tool from the cabinet. Therefore, the entire cabinet is locked all the time, and only authorized workers have access. Availability of Different Authorization Systems Different types of locking systems are available in these intelligent tool cabinets, depending on which companies they choose. The stricter the rules, the more stringent the authorization system. Here are some standard locking systems companies use. 1. Password SystemIt is a simple system with a keyboard inside the screen to allow users to type the password. It might take more time than other methods, but it is shared. However, it is less secure than others. Only authorized workers can access the CNC tools inside the cabinets through it. There is a problem with it, and that is the password leak. Any unauthorized person who finds out about the password will cause issues for others. Yet, it is one of the most common authorization systems worldwide. 2. RFID Card This one is better than the previous system, which allows only those who have authorized cards. These cards have RFID chips that unlock and lock the intelligent tool cabinets. No other person can withdraw CNC tools from it unless they have an RFID card. It is a better mode because of the least risk of unauthorized access. Yet, if someone steals an authorized person’s card, a security breach is possible. Overall, RFID cards provide faster access than typing a password. Within a second, any worker can unlock the intelligent CNC tool cabinet. 3. Facial Recognition Then comes the most advanced type, the facial recognition system. Only authorized persons can unlock these cabinets using CNC tools. No other person can access it since there is no chance of stealing a password or RFID card. This method is faster than RFID since workers only have to show their faces to the machine. In advanced economies, these versions are standard. They make accessibility fast and security high. 4. Coin Insertion Then, there is a rare type of intelligent tool cabinet, which is hardly used now. The reason is its lack of security, as it requires only a coin, just like a vending machine. You insert a coin into it and select the type of CNC tool you need to withdraw. Since there are way better options, it is hardly used in the industry. Wide Touch Screen with Windows Support A touch screen helps with the password and other accessibility options. One prominent feature of these intelligent tool cabinets is the ability to choose what users want. All the user-friendly options are available, allowing users to unlock, select, and withdraw any CNC tool. The codes are based on the vaults’ serial numbers. Workers can choose the exact vault by selecting the right option. Then, they can safely open the vault to pick the tool they want. This screen allows administrators to select more advanced options. These options include real-time data access and settings that enable advanced features. Since the Windows support system is installed, users find it easier to use. Warning If Any Door Remains Unlocked In some intelligent tool cabinets, there are warning systems. They prevent any error or mistake from the user’s end. For example, if a worker forgets to shut the vault’s door, the screen will alarm it. Then, the user can shut the door properly to keep the CNC tool safe from any unauthorized access. This is why they are different from usual safes: They provide enhanced security and an improved organizing method. Real-Time Information of Tools An organization has ERP systems to ensure the proper flow of information and material. Likewise, these intelligent tool cabinets have real-time information about the tools. The machine will let the user know the tools that are unavailable in their vaults. It will show the entire slot where the tools are available and unavailable. This real-time information prevents any shortage of tools because only authorized persons know about it. When a CNC tool is withdrawn from this cabinet, the machine will show how many tools are left in it. Also, an administrator will get complete data regarding the number of past accesses and the types of tools used. This information is available in real-time for administrators and authorized users. Thus, the chance of any error or loss of a tool is zero. Remote Control System for Wide Access Some modern cabinets of CNC tools have more advanced features. They allow administrators and authorized users to have remote control. If a user is away from the machine and wants access, this machine will allow remote access. The remote-control system makes it more user-friendly, which prevents downtime in production. If an authorized employee is unavailable, an administrator can unlock the machine for a temporary purpose. It could also be about maintenance works requiring remote access for better results. Conclusion These cabinets are not ordinary cabinets since they have many features. From security to remote access, they make CNC tool organizing easier and safer. The tools remain safe from dust, moisture, and unauthorized access. Also, they have lots of space to keep every type of CNC tool for industrial use.
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