| | OCTOBER 20209CIOReviewtransformation; the energy level must be consistent. However, the base material has an impact on the absorptivity and varies from lot to lot. The energy supply can be adjusted via a feedback loop to minimize the variation in the final product by monitoring. This strategy works very well on both discrete and continuous processes, which can have a "human in the loop" or be fully autonomous.Condition Monitoring DDM speaks to the machine and tooling aspects of the business. By listening to signals from the equipment, machine life can be extended, unintended downtime can be avoided, and necessary maintenance is planned. Tool life also can be extended to the practical limit while avoiding breakage and machine crashes. Monitor the appropriate temperatures, flows, torques, forces, vibrations, etc., and understand their roles in the transfer functions of healthy equipment and tooling. As this valuable information (transformed from the data) progresses in a direction known to be unhealthy, changes and corrections can be made to avoid undesirable situations. Additionally, by monitoring machine conditions and then calling for a person to intervene (if not done automatically), labor is minimized by not performing scheduled checks of all the plant equipment.The top challenges in decision making for plant management and engineering are the lack of accessible data and the response time of analysis. Data on paper makes real-time analytics all but impossible. Historical analysis and product tracking information, although possible, is seldom undertaken due to the time and effort required and are often hampered by the lack of visualization.Many companies are popping up who are more than willing to take your money to put overarching systems into your factories. But be conscious of the fact that no one knows your processes better than you. At Parker Hannifin, we employ our own sensors and "Voice of the Machine" products to gain the desired data. We have found that intelligent yet simple implementations are often the best approach forward. They will provide quick wins with fast return on investment AND increase your staff's understanding so that you can later tackle bigger and bigger implementations.DDM is a proven method to take manufacturing to the next level of efficiency. It is also harmonious with Lean and Six Sigma principles, Kaizen activities, and Shikumi (holistic system-based Lean transformation). What better way to gain the insight and knowledge needed to direct activities and then confirm improvement?Make the strides in quality, cost, and delivery by listening to your process to know the information necessary to make the right decisions. Listen! Your equipment and process are full of ways to improve your business!
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