Materials inventory status, anytime, anywhere

The core components of the solution are BinMaster’s SmartBob2 or SmartBob-TS1 sensors mounted on the bins or silos; a wireless or wired data communications network; a gateway to provide connectivity to a personal computer or IP network; and data collection software that can be viewed by any authorized individual via an Internet connection.

BinLink offers real-time 24/7 monitoring and features end-to-end encryption and authentication to ensure data is safe and confidential from the bin to the corporate office.

“The genesis of BinLink came from customers demanding an IP-based inventory-management solution,” says Todd Peterson, VP of sales for BinMaster. “The SmartBob devices provide the ability to monitor bulk inventory at a particular site. BinLink takes it one step further to give authorized users the ability to look at any tank, silo, or bin anywhere in the world.”

BinLink also allows users to set automated alerts to their Blackberry or cell phone, ensuring the proper levels of inventory. It’s ideal for multiple facilities and facilitates bulk material buying for every plant. SmartBob-TS1 can be used in tanks up to 40-ft tall, and the SmartBob2 can be used in silos up to 180 ft tall, explains Peterson. “Users can schedule measurements to be taken at various times during the day, either every so many hours, or at the end of every shift,” he adds. “Many companies have fewer people to take the inventory, and BinLink makes it easier to manage inventory.”

BinMaster is a division of Garner Industries, a custom injection molding and job-shop machining operation. Peterson notes that the BinMaster proprietary business has been growing steadily over the years, and the company serves all types of industries in addition to the plastics industry, including food processing and agriculture. —Clare Goldsberry