When plenty of money is circulating during a boom cycle, running an established business can look relatively straightforward. Process inefficiency is easy to miss when profits are growing and more cash is coming in than going out. The real test comes during a market downturn when sentiment becomes negative and consumers with less money to spend consider their purchasing decisions more carefully.
“This is when managers need to re-evaluate how efficiently the business is operating, and what measures they are going to take to trim out the waste. Before they can achieve this of course they need a measurement system, and more importantly, a measurement system that transforms data into information,” says Neil Upfold of eTX Data Services.
He continues by stating that this is often easier said than done: “If the wrong parameters are measured, or the right parameters are measured with the wrong degree of accuracy, the system can often do more harm than good.”
He adds that in manufacturing the technology required for data capturing is mostly available ready for connection to the plant along with an industrial software package to process this data and generate reports. However, the system can only really be optimal if at least the following questions have been considered by the end user:
* Have we chosen the best hardware to perform our measurements and execute our control requirements adequately?
* Does our software give us the information we need to make informed decisions about our processes?
* In the future will our system be easily expandable?
“If it is not your core business, why not partner with a solution provider?” Neil asks.
“At eTX we specialise in configuring off-the-shelf hardware and software tools into systems that are tailored to a set of specific user requirements. In the right hands data integration software such as Kepware’s OPC server along with small scada packages, PLCs, remote I/O devices and radio modems can be combined to create extremely powerful management tools.
“Couple that with our ‘on time on budget’ approach, and you get a system that saves company money, streamlines processes and adds value to the bottom line for years.”
Schneider Electric’s Five-Pillar Strategy takes the guesswork out of equip Schneider Electric South Africa
IT in Manufacturing
Schneider Electric’s Field Service Cycle, otherwise known as the Five-Pillar Strategy, is a structured approach to managing the lifecycle of equipment to prolong asset lifespan while reducing the total cost of ownership for customers.
Read more...Laying the groundwork in IT/OT
IT in Manufacturing
In the realm of manufacturing, the core mandate is to deliver value to stakeholders. For many in the industry, this is best achieved through a risk-averse approach. Only upon establishing a robust foundation should a business consider venturing into advanced optimisation or cutting-edge technological innovations such as industrial AI.
Read more...Looking into the future of machine vision Omron Electronics
IT in Manufacturing
Artificial intelligence (AI) is driving a significant transformation in all areas of industrial automation, and machine vision is no exception. Omron’s AI-powered machine vision systems seamlessly integrate state-of-the-art algorithms, enabling machines to analyse and interpret visual data meticulously.
Read more...Driving digital transformation in the truck industry Siemens South Africa
IT in Manufacturing
Tatra Trucks, a leading truck manufacturer in Czechia, has adopted the Siemens Xcelerator portfolio of industry software including Teamcenter software for product lifecycle management and the Mendix low code platform to help increase production volume and strengthen its ability to manufacture vehicles that meet specific customer requirements.
Read more...Opinion piece: Digital twins in manufacturing – design, optimise and expand Schneider Electric South Africa
IT in Manufacturing
Digital twin technology can help create better products, fast. It can also transform the work of product development. This strong statement from McKinsey reinforces how far digital twins have come in manufacturing.
Read more...Asset tracking is key to driving operational excellence and sustainable growth Schneider Electric South Africa
IT in Manufacturing
Asset tracking plays a critical role in the success of industrial businesses. By effectively managing and monitoring assets, companies can optimise their operations, ensuring that resources are used efficiently. This leads to improved productivity and reduced costs.
While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein, the publisher and its agents cannot be held responsible for any errors contained, or any loss incurred as a result. Articles published do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers. The editor reserves the right to alter or cut copy. Articles submitted are deemed to have been cleared for publication. Advertisements and company contact details are published as provided by the advertiser. Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd cannot be held responsible for the accuracy or veracity of supplied material.
printer friendly version