CI Link Cloud API

Designed to integrate machine data with business tools and visualization platforms, the CI Link Cloud API pulls data from the cloud while ensuring it’s managed locally.

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. 

Designed for web environments rather than traditional shop-floor integration via a standard OPC UA gateway (CI Link), the Cloud API sources data from the cloud to deliver live and historical machine metrics. It enables secure, authenticated requests tailored for integration with third-party dashboards or custom applications.

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

  • Token-Based Access: Standard REST implementations use 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.