In order to download and install the QF Agent, please visit the following page on Github: https://github.com/QuotationFactory/QF.Agent.Host
The Quotation Factory Agent, commonly known as QF Agent, is a crucial component in the infrastructure of the Quotation Factory, a cloud-based platform primarily serving the metalworking industry. This Windows-based .NET Core application acts as a connector, linking local network and on-premise systems of metalworking companies with the Quotation Factory cloud platform. The use of Azure IoT technology underpins the communication, enhancing both the robustness and security of these interactions.
Key Features and Capabilities of the QF Agent
Integration and Configuration
The QF Agent is seamlessly integrated into the Quotation Factory cloud platform. Companies can add and configure the agent through the platform's settings page under 'Integrations => QF Agent'. Upon addition, the platform generates a unique Agent ID, which is essentially an Azure IoT device ID, used in the QF Agent's JSON settings for identification and communication.
Dual Role as Azure IoT Client
As an Azure IoT Client (device), the QF Agent supports two-way communication:
From Cloud to Agent: It receives commands and files, facilitating dynamic updates and instructions from the cloud.
From Agent to Cloud: It sends commands and files back to the cloud, ensuring that the cloud platform remains updated with the latest operational statuses.
ERP and CAM System Integration
The QF Agent integrates with existing ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) and CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing) systems, automating and enhancing several critical workflows:
ERP Integration: The agent interacts with ERP systems to manage and synchronize various operational aspects:
Bill of Materials and Production Routes: Automatically creates and updates these elements in the ERP system based on data received from the cloud platform.
Estimating Metal Usage and Production Time: Calculates necessary materials and timelines for manufacturing, syncing these estimates with the ERP for enhanced operational planning.
Real-Time Production Status: Sends updates back to the cloud, allowing for real-time visibility of production stages on internal KANBAN boards and customer-facing portals.
CAM System Integration: Facilitates the automatic transfer of CAD files to CAM systems, handling specifications for quantities and materials. It also performs manufacturability checks and sends back CNC programs or alerts about potential manufacturability issues in various formats including messages, PDFs, and videos.
MQTT Protocol Integration
The beta version of the QF Agent includes a built-in MQTT host/server and can function as an MQTT client. This feature standardizes many events and topics, streamlining communications over MQTT protocols with the QF platform, enhancing the flexibility and scalability of integrations.
Example Scenarios of QF Agent in Action
Scenario 1: Creating a Bill of Materials
When a new Request for Quotation (RfQ) is initiated on the Quotation Factory platform, the QF Agent retrieves the necessary data from the cloud and automatically generates a detailed Bill of Materials in the linked ERP system. This ensures that all material requirements are accurately accounted for and available for the production process.
Scenario 2: Syncing with Sales Orders
Upon the creation of sales orders in the cloud platform, the QF Agent syncs this information with the ERP system, updating customer and article information including segmentation and cost prices of raw materials and purchased parts. This synchronization ensures that all aspects of the sales process are aligned with inventory and customer management systems.
Scenario 3: Updating Production Status
As production progresses, the QF Agent sends real-time updates to the cloud platform regarding the status of packaging, transportation, and overall production stages. These updates automatically refresh the KANBAN board within the metalworking company and update the customer self-service portal, providing transparency and enhancing customer satisfaction.
Conclusion
The QF Agent represents a sophisticated bridge between on-premise systems and cloud-based operations, essential for modern metalworking companies aiming to optimize their production processes and customer interactions. By leveraging Azure IoT technology and integrating deeply with ERP and CAM systems, the QF Agent not only streamlines operations but also provides critical real-time data flows that enhance decision-making and operational efficiency.