Material transfer control

Q.i. is a package of software and services that combines the predictive adaptive control (PAC) technology developed by Proctor & Gamble with Mettler Toledo's material transfer controller (Matroller).

Q.i. monitors material transfer operations by measuring the flow rate of a material at periodic points, and then building a mathematical model of the process. Based on the historical information gathered, it predicts how the delivery system will react when instructed by the control system to complete the material transfer (feed). It then automatically compensates for normal process variants that cause errors, eliminating costly raw material overfeed/underfeed, and allowing for optimal delivery of the material as quickly and as closely to the desired setpoint as possible.

Because material transfer cut-off is predicted ahead of time, the system executes using simple on-off control rather than the more complicated multi-speed control scheme used in most batching and filling systems. The result is reduced batch cycle time and higher manufacturing throughput.

Q.i. also includes a combination of performance analysis software, collaborative production management tools and predictive/preventive diagnostics. The Q.i. software monitors the material transfer processes and alerts the Q.i. team when problems are encountered to help resolve problems before they disrupt production. The system also includes programs for gathering and analysing data to provide statistical, diagnostic and operational information on the material transfer system, as well as for asset management, batch server, process control and spreadsheet or database applications.