Remote Machine Monitoring with Live Video & Audio
The Challenge
Machine operators in SME workshops often oversee multiple machines spread across the shop floor. Monitoring each machine requires regular physical walkarounds, consuming valuable time that could be spent on other productive tasks. Abnormal sounds, often the first sign of wear, misalignment, or mechanical failure, are easily missed when machines are far apart or when background noise is high. Undetected issues lead to costly scrap, unplanned downtime, and delayed deliveries.
What This Demonstrator Does
A compact camera and microphone unit (such as a GoPro or similar action camera) is mounted inside or near each machine’s working area. The live video and audio feeds are streamed over the local network to a central monitoring dashboard. Any device connected to the network, whether a desktop at the operator’s workstation, a tablet on the shop floor, or a smartphone, can display and play back one or more machine feeds simultaneously. Access is provided through a standard web browser; no specialised software is required. The setup is non-intrusive and can be installed without modifications to the machine itself.
What You Gain
- Reduced walkaround time, allowing operators to stay productive at their workstation
- Earlier detection of abnormal sounds or visual anomalies, preventing scrap and tool damage
- Simultaneous oversight of multiple machines from a single screen or mobile device
Who Is This For?
This demonstrator is suited for small and medium-sized manufacturing companies operating multiple machines with limited operator staff. It is particularly relevant for workshops where machines are spread across a large floor area or where a single operator is responsible for overseeing several machines at once.
Estimated Cost to Implement
Total estimated budget: €500–€1,500 per machine. A basic three-machine setup can typically be realised for under €3,000.
Pilot Program
What does a pilot look like for this demonstrator?
A camera and microphone unit is installed inside or near one to three machines at the SME’s facility. The live feeds are connected to the local network and made accessible via a web-based dashboard. The pilot runs for a defined period (typically four to six weeks) during normal production.
Services provided during the pilot:
- On-site installation and configuration of camera and audio units
- Setup of network streaming and web-based monitoring dashboard
- Operator briefing on accessing and using the live feeds (approximately one hour)
- Remote technical support during the pilot period
- End-of-pilot evaluation with findings and recommendations for permanent deployment
What you need to have / provide:
- One or more machines with accessible mounting positions for a small camera unit
- Wi-Fi or Ethernet connectivity near each monitored machine
- A designated contact person available during installation and for follow-up questions
Contact
Partner organization: CRM
Contact person: Jens Van Humbeeck
Email: jens.vanhumbeeck@crmgroup.be