Types of Production Processes
SyncMES® adapts to the needs of different production processes. The MES system controls the production process and collects information about what, how and how much was produced. Although the basic functions of MES systems remain constant, the focus and scope of system features are determined by the production process.
In the manufacturing industry, product structure, order-specific requirements, manufacturing work instructions and material tracking are key. Production volume is often calculated in inventory units rather than as individual pieces made.
In continuous production processes, the data often accumulates into MES time series: e.g. how many production tons were produced per hour/shift/week, what was the average pH of the process water? Materials do not always involve product structures, but quantities such as mass and energy balances can be calculated from production
In batch production, monitoring is performed not only on a time basis but also on a batch number basis. Quality data and key figures are allocated to the production batch. The product structure is often replaced by a recipe.
In assembly production, planning, product structures and the availability of components are key. Essential factors to consider include measuring the performance of numerous consecutive or parallel work steps, as well as measuring and ensuring the quality of the assembly.
So, a single MES functionality cannot meet all needs – each type of production process has its own conditions. The product properties of SyncMES®, translatable into parameters, facilitate solutions on a per case basis, adaptable to the requirements of each industry. This is even more important in processes where the type of production changes in the middle of the production flow, e.g. from a continuous process into a discontinuous manufacturing process.
Deciding on the connection between MES and production planning is an important choice to make. By integrating MES and design software that supports your production method in a single system you can eliminate yet another interface. At the same time, you eliminate delays in translating plans into production instructions. This is carried out by Syncron Tech’s SyncMES® and SyncPlan® software. A single MES functionality does not fit all, but a good MES is flexible and versatile.