MakeACS by default tracks machine usage in Hobbs hours, based on the equipment being in an unlocked state. While this is a good approximation, there are many machines where this is not a good number to base maintenance on. For instance;
- A laser cutter's filter should be replaced based on the number of hours cutting, whereas MakeACS, controlling the laser computer's peripherals with a USB Hub Switch, only tracks how long the user took to set up their job.
- A CNC machine's spindle needs to be re-greased based on hours of spindle run time, but MakeACS, which controls power to the entire machine, would also track the time the machine is on but not cutting.
- If a paint spray booth is not on MakeACS access control, it would still be useful to track on-time and generate tickets to replace the filter based on usage.
This hardware accessory is the solution for these situations: a MakeACS-compatible Hobbs meter that tracks the actual runtime of critical machine systems, replacing the default MakeACS Hobbs implementation.
Hobbs hours are tracked when power is applied to the monitoring terminals of the device, which can accept 5-80v AC or DC signals, and only draw 15mA from the attached system. Hobbs hours are displayed on a 6 digit display for easy monitoring at the machine.
This project is licensed under the CERN-OHL-S 2.0 License. See LIECENSE.txt for more information.