BOSS™ PC-Based Control System

The FKI Logistex BOSS system is a complete, 100% PC-based control solution developed exclusively for material handling applications. It combines machine control, data collection, system diagnostics and HMI (Human Machine Interface) into a single software package. BOSS allows you to manage and measure the productivity of the material handling system while providing state-of-the-art machine level control and data acquisition. It includes extensive diagnostics, data collection and productivity monitoring tools in its basic configuration.

Simplicity
BOSS replaces multiple levels of controls common to competitors’ PLC-based systems with a single integrated software package running on a standard PC platform. This concept reduces system complexity, minimizes connectivity issues, and facilitates the timely flow of system management information throughout a system.

Integrated HMI (Human Machine Interface)
Every BOSS system includes built-in graphical client-server HMI capabilities as a standard part of the control system. This interface is simple and straightforward to use while providing operators with "real-time" system status, alarms and performance information. The standard BOSS HMI also includes extensive diagnostics, data collection/logging functions and productivity-monitoring tools to help keep your system running at peak performance levels. Operator views can be pre-configured to allow access to the information required, while restricting access to advanced features need for maintenance and system optimization. The BOSS HMI is designed so any networked Windows-based PC within your facility/organization can share a common configuration that provides information where it is needed.

HMI/Database Options
In addition to the standard HMI included with every system, there are two optional Windows-based products designed exclusively for FKI Logistex systems. The Conveyor Graphics System (CGS) package provides a graphical system interface for monitoring conveyor operations. The Conveyor Management System (CMS) package provides an historical database with extensive report and chart generation functions for process visibility and better system management.

Integrated High-Speed Sortation and Induction Control
The BOSS system provides precise high-speed sortation and induction control, and permits the highest sortation throughputs available while requiring smaller gaps between cartons. This enables FKI Logistex to deliver industry leading throughput rates while increasing conveyor life and reducing noise levels.

Modular & Standardized Software
BOSS utilizes standardized software from a large library of field-tested and proven software modules that cover most material handling system requirements. This speeds project implementation, minimizes site testing, increases reliability, and lowers your long-term cost.

Connectivity
BOSS communicates with your host computer systems without the need for additional dedicated computers or special hardware to bridge between the machine level controller and WCS/WMS level host systems. BOSS supports TCP/IP message exchanges (sockets), FTP file transfers and OPC (OLE for process control) along with serial (RS232/422) and PLC data highway type interfaces. All systems include diagnostic tools for the maintenance and troubleshooting of any communication interface supported by your BOSS system.

Reliability
FKI Logistex is a pioneer and long-time industry leader in PC-based control solutions. BOSS utilizes the latest industrially hardened PC technology for each BOSS Real Time Controller (RTC) PC for the highest reliability available. BOSS has the largest installed base of any PC-based control system in our industry and a proven track record of reliability.

Remote Support and Service
All BOSS controlled systems feature technical support and service from Customer Service & Support (CSS), our multi-faceted program that provides service 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to ensure optimum operation of your system.