Manufacturing Software
Kitting to Shipping
SageData is based in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
This section describes ways in which SDS manufacturing software can improve the manufacturing process from kitting, through assembly, to test and ship.
Introduction
For many manufacturing operations tracking the progress of an assembly
through the process is both essential and difficult. Barcodes and asset tracking
technology can make it reliable and easy. This helps save time, reduce costs, improve
quality and ensure that product is released to plan.
We recommend that you first read Barcodes for Manufacturing
since many of theprinciples discussed are relevant.
Application of barcode Tags
Barcodes tags can be used to identify a variety of items as they move through the manufacturing process.
Beyond item identification, barcode tags can also identify individual operators (so that a record is kept of who did what) and location information, which can be used to identify and eliminate bottlenecks, eliminate delays due to out of stock situations, and improve quality.
Managing inventory with barcodes
When designed well, inventory management with barcodes is a breeze. If the manufactured items are individually identified (for example, a shelf full of computers), and locations are carefully labelled, then a simple scan can inventory and timestamp items easily.
For SKU-based inventory (for example, low-value items such as screws, washers, nuts) then barcodes can be applied in a couple of ways. If it is convenient and cost-effective to individually identify aggregated quantities of stock (for example, 100 nuts, bolts and washers in a kit for sale or internal use), then the same principles as for individually identified items can be used. If a more conventional stores model is used, Barcode tags can still be used or RFID may be better - much depends on circumstances.
The same tools are used for put-away and picking, to maintain a moving inventory count. An MSL (minimum stock level) feature in the software helps ensure that stock is replenished in a timely fashion, avoiding disruption associated with shortage of raw materials.
Managing WIP (Work in Process)
By attaching a tag to each item or each batch, progress through the manufacturing process can be recorded and subsequently analyzed. Reading of the tags can be completely automated with a reader at each station recording time in. When items have to be prioritized, they can be easily located either with fixed or mobile readers.
Regulatory Compliance
In many processes there is a step which must be tracked and recorded. Perhaps a calibration, a sealing process, an inspection, or confirmation that a specific test has been conducted. The use of barcode technology facilitates the collection and management of certification
Traceability
In some industries, particularly food or aerospace, there is a requirement for traceability. AutoID technology such as RFID or bar codes enable materials to be tracked from receipt to shipping. One of our clients tracks every component for an aeronautical application from receipt to shipment. In a system with several thousand components, the date of receipt and lot number of every item can readily be identified.
Conclusion
Barcode technology enables large amounts of data to be collected without adding to the overhead of manufacturing tasks, and often without human effort. Immediate benefits include the reduction of paperwork, and the timely dissemination of information related to manufacturing. Although there are considerable savings in reduced time required for routine operations, the biggest benefit is the reduction of time wasted dealing with unplanned disruption due to misplaced WIP or shortage of raw materials.
Contact us for more information.
If you found this useful, you might also want to review:
- an introduction
to barcode technology
- an introduction to RFID
- mobile data
collectors
- consulting
services: barcodes and their applications
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