What is NTM’s UNIQ® Automatic Control System?

Machine accessories & add-ons
Rick Zand|September 4, 2024

When first released in 2020, New Tech Machinery’s (NTM) UNIQ controller received a number of customer complaints, and at NTM we quickly realized we’d gotten it wrong. We take user feedback very seriously and immediately addressed the problems with the new controller. Fortunately, we resolved the issues, and today, the UNIQ Automatic Control System is an industry-leading state-of-the-art controller. 

The UNIQ controller software update process was designed to provide a more user-friendly and functional system, without compromising safety or reliability. If you have an older UNIQ controller and haven’t updated it, you can download the update here.

The UNIQ® automatic control system is mounted on an SSQ II™ MultiPro roof panel machine

What Is the UNIQ Controller?

The UNIQ Automatic Control System can be added as an accessory for the SSQ II™ MultiPro Roof and Wall Panel Machine and comes as standard equipment with the WAV™ Wall Panel Machine. With the most current software updates, the UNIQ is now more efficient than ever, helping you maximize productivity whether you’re in the shop or on-site.

This sophisticated yet easy-to-use controller simplifies your workflow by automating tasks like measuring, jogging panels, programming shear, and notching functions. You can even import cut lists, making your operation more accurate and efficient.

While the UNIQ is optional on the SSQ II MultiPro (required only if using the notching function), it’s designed to enhance efficiency and precision in producing metal panels.

What You’ll Learn about the UNIQ:

UNIQ Controller: Key Features

The UNIQ Automatic Control System is the first of its kind, offering unmatched control for rollforming machines. Here’s what sets it apart:

  • 7” Touch Screen: Features a lockable metal cover with screen guards to reduce glare.
  • Troubleshooting Screens: Enhanced with pop-ups that guide operators through common issues.
  • Coil Calculator: Estimates the remaining material based on coil diameter and thickness.
  • Job and Part Entry: Easily input job details directly into the system.
  • Operation Modes: Switch between automatic and manual operation using the touch screen or push-button controls.
  • USB Port: Import a 600-panel length cut list or export project details for further analysis.
  • Notching Functionality: Essential for the SSQ II, the UNIQ is required to run the notching system.
  • Precision: Accurate within 1/8 inch.
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How the UNIQ Works

For the SSQ II:

The UNIQ controller is primarily used for batch and length control, allowing precise programming of panel quantities and lengths. It’s essential for the notching function, which cannot be operated manually.

For the WAV:

The UNIQ controller takes full advantage of the WAV machine’s capabilities, including speed control through a Variable Frequency Drive (VFD). This integration enhances the machine’s performance and versatility. Likewise, the WAV UNIQ features the same benefits as with the SSQ II, such as batch and length capabilities.

Troubleshooting Made Easy

The UNIQ controller simplifies troubleshooting with detailed informational pop-ups that alert operators to potential issues, such as:

  • Part length too short
  • Hydraulic pressure problems
  • Material passing target length
  • Shear blade not up
  • Material not loaded
  • End of coil reached

UNIQ Special Features

  • Programmability: Easily manage up to 600 panel lengths in a cut list, making it ideal for large jobs.
  • Material Estimation: The controller estimates remaining material based on coil dimensions, reducing waste.
  • Totalizer and Reporting: Track total production, machine run time, shear cycles, and notching cycles, helping you monitor performance and manage inventory.
  • Export/Import Functionality: Save cut lists to a USB drive for backup or further analysis, and easily import cut lists from your computer on an Excel spreadsheet.
  • Hot Melt System Integration: The UNIQ controller can integrate with a hot melt system, adding to its versatility.
Service Technician pointing to UNIQ Controller screen

Considerations

Non-Retrofittable: The UNIQ controller is generally not retrofittable to older machines unless they were originally built with the UNIQ platform. Upgrading from a manual to an automatic UNIQ controller can be costly, but due to its robust features and accuracy, it may be worth the additional investment.

Why Choose the UNIQ?

Most SSQ II MultiPro owners opt to include the UNIQ controller, finding that the time savings, reduced material waste, and enhanced troubleshooting more than justify the investment. Even if you don’t use all the functions, the UNIQ can significantly cut labor hours and streamline panel production.

At NTM, we prioritize ease of use for our customers, and the UNIQ controller is a testament to that commitment. Our innovations are driven by user feedback, and we welcome your thoughts and ideas.

The Bottom Line

  • The UNIQ controller offers precision up to 1/8 inch, significantly improving accuracy over older systems.
  • It comes standard with the WAV machine and is available as an option for the SSQ II.
  • The UNIQ is designed to reduce material waste and labor costs by automating key production processes.

UNIQ Controller Compatible Machines

SSQ
SSQ II MultiPro

SSQ II MultiPro Roof and Wall Panel Machine

The SSQ II is NTM’s flagship model and the most popular NTM metal panel machine. Added options include notching, extra reels, the UNIQ® Automatic Control System, to name a few.

The SSQ II MultiPro Starts at $59,800 (Profile not included)

Features:

  • Capable of producing 16 profiles, including standing seam, soffit, flush wall, and board and batten
  • Polyurethane drive rollers
  • Hydraulic drive and shear
  • UL compliant panels
  • Push button RUN/ JOG controllers at entry and exit ends
  • Power interruption safety circuit
  • Speeds up to 75’/ minute
  • Coil widths 15″ to 30″ for finished panel widths typically between 12” and 24”.
  • Electric or gas Quick-Change Power Pack

Whether you’re starting out in the industry or adding a machine to your current operation, the SSQ II MultiPro offers in-plant and on-site panel fabrication, enabling you to meet a variety of your customer needs.  

WAV wall panel machine
WAV Wall Panel Machine

WAV Wall Panel Machine

The WAV machine starts at $195,000*

Features:

  • Gas power (electric motor available at an additional cost)
  • On-site setup and training (within continental U.S.)
  • Ability to produce 16″, 12″, and 8″ wide WAV-style profiles
  • UNIQ Automatic Control System included
  • Various trailer options available as well as in-plant machine stand
  • Ability to run 22 or 24 ga. Grade 50 steel with all profiles (16″ profiles can be produced in 0.032″ or 0.040″ aluminum as well)

*Requires purchase of a chosen trailer or fixed base/ platform at an additional price 

I’m New to NTM Machines

NTM strongly recommends training for all machine owners and their crews to help ensure operators understand safety, maintenance, changeovers and adjustments. Training is free to all new machine owners at our plant in Aurora, Colorado, where your crew can learn from industry professionals. You can also receive training at your location from one of our service specialists.

For more information about the UNIQ Automatic Control System, SSQ II, WAV machine, or any of our roof panel or gutter machines, contact us today.

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