Tracking production time is a key step in getting your company's operating costs under control.
The information that can be gathered can be analyzed and compared to show, even graphically, the production trend.
The software that performs these operations is of the MES (Manufacturing Execution System) type and has precisely the main function of managing and controlling the production function of a company.
We want to make a clarification: data collection can be performed on two complementary activities:
- Resource/machine side production detection
- Production survey related to personnel employed.
Machine-side time detection
The first of the two is the simplest: by properly managing a machine-side PLC/parts counter, it will be possible to find the machine's output in real time by providing production feed-back.
Such data can be handled in two distinct ways:
- Real time: with each piece produced, the PLC signals to a detection system the action that has taken place. The value passed will then be historicized within an archive (database).
- Time deferred: at well-established time intervals, the detection system requests from the PLC the number of pieces produced and the result is historicized within an archive (database)
The two case histories are quite different because while pe the former the PLC plays the part of controller (it is the logic of the PLC that triggers any actions), the latter makes the PLC less central and gives more importance to the data collection software.
Survey of staff time
The second and most fundamental survey to be activated (it is often the least implemented because it is much more complicated) is the one related to personnel.
To understand your company's production base, you certainly need to know what daily operations an operator performs.
By identifying these operations we will know how operator time is managed and where we could optimize.
Core activities
In our experience, the key activities to be "tracked," during production operations are as follows:
- Opening production
- Pouring production
- Production Suspension/Closure
- Opening tooling
- Suspension/Closure Equipment
- Opening Maintenance
- Closure Maintenance
Of course, these activities are company-dependent, and as we often say: the same company, moved even a hundred meters is another company with similar problems but different solutions.
Relying on a technology partner with a lot of experience ensures that the intended goal is achieved and in a short time and cost-effective manner.
Remember that this type of product can provide you with tangible results, but it must be researched and "tailored" like a custom-made suit.
