CI Link Cloud API: the cloud-based monitoring solution that provides a powerful REST API, specifically designed to integrate machine data with business tools and visualization platforms

The CI Link Cloud API is a powerful RESTful interface designed to bridge the gap between Cincinnati Incorporated's machine telemetry and modern web-based platforms. By leveraging the CI Connect cloud infrastructure, this API provides developers and marketing teams the tools needed to build custom dashboards, integrate with ERP systems, and provide real-time production visibility. 

Unlike the standard OPC UA gateway used for industrial shop-floor integration (CI Link), the Cloud API is optimized for web environments. It allows for secure, authenticated "pull" requests to retrieve live and historical data from any machine connected to the CI Suite.

Key Benefits of CI Link Cloud API

  • Utilizes standard HTTP methods, making it compatible with modern web frameworks like React, Vue, and Angular.

  • Access live machine status, alarms, and job progress directly from the shop floor.

  • Secured via API Keys and OAuth 2.0 authentication protocols with encrypted HTTPS transmission.

  • Query historical production trends to identify bottlenecks and optimize machine utilization.

Data Connectivity and Flow

  • Edge Layer

    Machines (like the Press Brake) send telemetry data to the CI Cloud via the machine's internal gateway.

  • Cloud Layer

    Data is processed and stored in the CI Connect/CI Link environment.

  • API Layer

    The RESTful API provides endpoints for your web server or front-end to "pull" this data.

  • Visualization Layer

    Your custom dashboard (React, Vue, or Angular) renders this data into charts and status indicators.

Key Integration Components

Authentication & Security

  • API Keys: Access is typically controlled via unique API keys generated within your e-ci.com account settings.

  • Token-Based Access: Standard REST implementations use OAuth 2.0 or Bearer Tokens for secure communication.

  • HTTPS: All calls to the CI Link Cloud API must be made over encrypted channels to protect industrial data.

Rest API Endpoints

Your dashboard will likely interact with the following data categories:

  • Machine Status: Is the machine Running, Idle, or in an Alarm state?

  • Job Metrics: Part counts, completion percentages, and current program names.

  • Sensor Data: Tonnage readings, ram positions, or cycle times.

  • Historical Data: Aggregated performance data over shifts, days, or weeks for trend analysis.

Begin Integration
Begin Integration

Front-End Development Notes

Recommended Tech Stack

  • Framework: React.js or Vue.js for reactive UI components that update as data refreshes.

  • Charting Libraries: Highcharts or D3.js for rendering complex press brake performance graphs.

  • State Management: Use Redux or Pinia to handle real-time data streams across multiple dashboard widgets.

Implementation Strategy

  • Polling vs. Webhooks: Determine if your dashboard will "poll" the API every 30–60 seconds or if a Webhook/WebSocket is available for instantaneous "push" updates.

  • Error Handling: Implement robust error states for when a machine goes offline or the API rate limit is reached.

  • Data Caching: Cache historical data locally to improve dashboard load times and reduce unnecessary API calls.