What kind of non-Ishida machines can Sentinel 5.0 connect to? E.g. Multihead weighers, inspection systems, tray sealing machines, checkweighers, or others?
In theory, Sentinel 5.0 can connect to any machine within the production line, both Ishida and non-Ishida. To facilitate connections with non-Ishida machines, we have created a third-party connector cable, which enables production equipment manufactured by other companies to connect to the software, converting the data into the required format.
In practice, whether or not a third-party machine can connect to Sentinel 5.0 depends on one crucial factor: how open to sharing its data the manufacturer is. Once the software is connected to all of the machines within the production line, it collects data on how each piece of equipment is performing, creating a baseline against our own database (the Ishida Knowledge Base). This, in turn, enables the software to notify the operator of any under-performing machines or mechanical issues.
Is there a set process when it comes to data transmission between the machines?
Data is transmitted from the machines to a secure cloud system, or to a local server, depending on the preference of the given business.
Why should manufacturers who use other machines use Sentinel 5.0? What’s the benefit to them?
Sentinel can give all manufacturers, including those with non-Ishida machines, an overview of how the entire production line is performing.
They will benefit from the same features as Ishida equipment owners – including AI-driven performance insights, diagnostics and recommendations, automatic reports, plus compliance support.
Are these connections secured? Do they go through the internet, or via a Cloud system?
Two options are available to customers – either a cloud system or a local server, depending on the end user’s preferences and existing infrastructure. It is worth noting the AI feature would be unavailable to customers opting for a local server, as it relies on a generative algorithm based on our Ishida Knowledge Base, which can only be accessed via the cloud.
We understand how precious performance data is, so we take data security seriously. Our protocol meets current cloud security standards, and only utilises outgoing connections, preventing incoming connections to eliminate the risks to customer network security.
All connections are encrypted using a minimum of TLS 1.2 to ensure data security during transmission. The platform itself only stores as much data as is needed and it’s anonymised where possible.
Other security features we’ve built in include the OAuth 2.0 authorization protocol, plus password database encryption. This is further reinforced by the addition of another security protocol – OpenID Connect, meaning only verified, authenticated users can access the data.
On the difference between Sentinel and Sentinel 5.0
How does the AI work?
The AI uses a generative algorithm designed to detect anomalies, using our own database – the Ishida Knowledge Base.
What is the main difference compared to the previous version in terms of features?
Sentinel 5.0 is a significant upgrade on the previous version of Sentinel.
In addition to the AI, which provides in-depth insights based on our knowledge base, and our chatbot, the new software can support manufacturers with:
- Paperless e-marking proof of compliance and HACCP management
- Individual packs data, including inspection images
- Local data back-ups in case of network outages, which guarantees data integrity
- Complete status reporting – our previous iteration of the software only provides one-minute snapshots
- Customisable reports and dashboards
- Settings change monitoring
- Automatic machine settings backup
- Remote software upgrades
- API access
Having a dedicated team focused on software innovation means new functionalities are always in development.
How are notifications sent to operators?
Operators are notified via Sentinel 5.0’s interface. If they choose to, they can also receive notifications via email.
How can operators act on the suggestions Sentinel 5.0 sends to improve performances?
Using insights from Ishida’s Knowledge Base, Sentinel 5.0 will provide tailored solutions to performance issues. Where relevant, these also include step-by-step instructions to make the required modifications.
How can the AI intervene without operators having to modify any parameters? Which parameters can the AI adjust? How can the AI make changes remotely? What are the benefits?
Sentinel 5.0 cannot intervene on its own currently; it can only notify operators of sub-optimal settings, abnormal performances or mechanical issues, then make detailed recommendations.
That being said, we’re also running trials to evaluate how reliable the AI could be when it comes to making automatic adjustments. We’re still in the early stages of development – but this could become an optional feature in the future.
How does the virtual assistant work?
Sentinel 5.0 includes a chatbot feature, which allows operators to ask questions to our software about machine performance-related issues. Using generative AI, and tapping onto the data from our knowledge base, the chatbot will then provide tailored answers.
Should a user ask a question the chatbot is unable to answer, a dedicated team of six people at Ishida will update the knowledge base and provide a response within days.
How does Sentinel 5.0 stands out from other solutions available on the market?
We are yet to see a solution as performance monitoring system as intelligent and as comprehensive as Sentinel 5.0. Sentinel 5.0 leverages what we believe to be one of the most extensive databases when it comes to production equipment management and performance optimisation – our Ishida Knowledge Base.
We are also one of the only manufacturers to have an entire team dedicated to IoT software development, meaning we can provide continuous improvement and innovation to our customers. With Sentinel 5.0, we have been pushing the boundaries of what is possible when it comes to using AI to improve performance, and we are proud to say we are the first to offer such a comprehensive solution to businesses.
To me, this is what sets us apart from others: this combination of specialized, in-depth knowledge and dedicated resources sets Sentinel 5.0 apart from competitors.