A Manufacturing Execution System or MES manages and monitors all activities performed on a factory floor. The right MES software can help manufacturers improve efficiency and increase the profitability of their manufacturing operations.
MES Benefits
A quality MES program can significantly improve production process planning, reduce costs, ensure consistent quality, reduce lead times, improve labor utilization and increase transparency. MES technology is crucial to efficient, cost-effective and quality manufacturing processes.
For the best results, MES solutions should be interconnected with multiple platforms. This allows for better handling of adverse situations in real-time.
MES and the IoT
The Internet of Things is changing the way in which information technology is used throughout manufacturing operations and decision-making. When connected to the IoT, an MES is able to provide real-time data with integrated cloud computing. This provides a number of benefits for manufacturing companies.
MES software has always relied on smart devices to collect and communicate data. However, without the IoT, MES software has extremely limited capabilities. This makes it difficult for manufacturers to compare efficiency and productivity.
The IoT has made it possible for an MES to be tailored to fit a number of needs. In addition to live monitoring of the factory floor, an MES connected to the IoT can perform predictive analytics, flexible user-configurable dashboards and strong data visualizations.
Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) allow data to be shared between interconnected devices and software platforms. The number of manufacturing devices equipped with APIs continues to grow, increasing the opportunity for IoT integration in MES applications.
Predict Potential Problems Quickly and Efficiently
Our solution includes the addition of IoT sensors throughout the entire production line to collect data and predict potential problems. Data is collected from a variety of sources including automation systems, robots, NC machines, digital gauges, cameras, sensors and wireless devices. This data provides valuable information about equipment usage, condition of equipment and output statistics. Our solution also helps track labor and improve productivity.
Data collected by our innovative IoT sensors is stored on the cloud at our datacenter where predictive analysis takes place. This allows our system to effectively predict problems before they occur, allowing managers to be proactive, rather than reactive.
By utilizing Raspberry Pi devices, we are able to significantly cut the cost of adding sensors to the production line. This makes gathering information much less expensive than standard manufacturing systems.
Choosing the Right MES Software
It can be difficult to determine which software is right for your business. In order to select the right MES program, it’s important to understand the different features and capabilities of each product. Selecting the most appropriate system begins with a thorough evaluation of a company’s needs.
The following should be considered before selecting MES software.
- Potential benefits and time-to-value
- MES functions that are needed vs. wanted
- How the system will fit within the company’s existing IT infrastructure
- Whether the system will compliment business operations and operation intelligence requirements
- Any necessary training and support
- Challenges that must be mastered
- Whether processes should be managed and implemented globally
- Whether the MES solution should be considered for all production sites
While there are many MES solutions available, only one will meet each company’s individual needs. The main focus should be on choosing a solution that effectively addresses the following requirements:
- Strategically addresses company needs
- Enables future expansion requirements
- Supports all manufacturing models used by the organization
- Operates well on a global level across heterogeneous IT environments
- Is well accepted by those that must work with it daily
The selection of MES software has a significant impact on a company’s manufacturing operations. Careful consideration and planning is necessary to ensure smooth integration and quality results.
Mint Controls can help your company select the best MES software for your business. By narrowing down thousands of options, we are able to provide you with the most relevant choices for your company’s needs. Our solutions include seamless IoT integration through Raspberry Pi devices. Please contact us for details.