DMSC and MTConnect Institute Update Agreement

The Digital Metrology Standards Consortium (DMSC) has updated its memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the MTConnect Institute, which was originally signed in 2011. According to the partners, evolving technology has led to changes in the way industrial software and machines work together. In addition, the organizations say that developments in manufacturing standards and data modeling enables information interoperability.

DMSC and MTConnect are leading modern industrial standards development by crafting a common, standardized, machine-readable information schema. This reportedly makes it easier for software developers, quality managers, engineering and manufacturing to use quality and manufacturing data together. By promoting the Quality Information Framework (QIF) and MTConnect integration, manufacturers will have access to a wider variety of manufacturing machine and software solutions. The two organizations plan to support and promote joint projects that will encourage integration and use of standardized information frameworks for parts and processes.

Curtis Brown, president of DMSC, comments, “A key benefit of collaboration between our two organizations will be expanded industry availability and enhanced implementation of QIF where an information schema for quality data is needed. We look forward to integrating our data models with the promise of better connectivity between quality-related information and manufacturing process information in a more reliable and secure manner.”

Doug Woods, president of the MTConnect Institute, adds, “Manufacturers looking to rapidly digitize their operations want integration across all departments. MTConnect breaks down silos, but harmonization with other standards is absolutely necessary to stay relevant. Working with DMSC on functional, technical interoperability is a big milestone for MTConnect and for smarter manufacturing.”