MES is also suitable for assembly

Gilching, July 23, 2024 – Until now, many companies in the wire processing industry have only used a manufacturing execution system (MES) to control the highly automated cutting area. However, with suitable software this system can also cover heterogeneous downstream assembly processes. DiIT is on hand to explain further.

Many wire processing companies already use a manufacturing execution system (MES) for processes in the cutting area. They now want to take the next logical step and use this system to also control, optimize and document the downstream processes involved in pre-assembly and final assembly. A major challenge here is the complexity involved. In contrast to the highly automated cutting area, assembly areas are characterized by heterogeneous materials, articles, processes and devices.

If companies wish to map this level of complexity with an individual MES, then they not only have to deal with costly development projects, but also high workloads relating to the ongoing maintenance and care of the system. Standard MES for the wire processing industry may be a better alternative here – provided they have the right properties.

DiIT – a specialist for integrated software systems used in wiring harness production – explains what companies have to consider when making their selection:

  • It should be possible to define the central elements of the system – such as materials, processes, articles, production plans, process-related data, quality control measures and devices – from scratch. If the elements can also be completely reconfigured at any time, then companies are able to react quickly and easily to changed requirements.
  • The MES should enable the traceability of products and include an appropriate model for doing so. Companies can then trace the composition of every produced article at any time. Ideally, the model can also be enhanced with additional process-related data in order to reproduce the process history and use it for quality improvements.
  • The companies must be able to connect a variety of different devices. The MES should not only support the native interfaces of various machine manufacturers, but also include general connectivity solutions as well. Only then will companies have the possibility of also connecting devices with only rudimentary or no interface functions.
  • In order to also integrate the MES in the existing IT landscape, the software requires corresponding interfaces. In addition to a modern API, this also includes classic data transmission via file integration. These instruments allow companies to read in master data, article data and order data from PLM and ERP systems, or transmit quality parameters to reporting solutions.
  • Due to cost reasons, the MES should be platform-independent and provide end users exclusively with web front ends as user interfaces. As a result, companies are not forced to equip every workstation with a complete PC. They can use tablets instead, which are cheaper and can be transported from one workstation to another.

“With a suitable standard MES, wire processing companies can ensure smooth, reliable operation across all production areas and trace their products at all times,” explains Bernd Jost, Managing Director of DiIT. “This is incredibly important for wiring harness manufacturers in particular. Due to the increasing electrification of vehicles and autonomous driving, requirements from OEMs in terms of the quality and traceability of wiring harnesses are growing significantly.”

 

DiIT GmbH, based in Gilching near Munich, is the world’s leading provider of integrated software solutions for manufacturing execution (MES), customized wire harness production and logistics. DiIT‘s competencies are bundled in the “4Wire Solutions” software suite, which is primarily used for the production of wire harnesses and wiring systems in the automotive industry and other industrial sectors. By digitalizing the value chains, the company‘s innovative software optimizes and controls complex manufacturing and logistics processes and supports quality assurance and traceability. DiIT was founded in 1990 and has a subsidiary in Berlin. DiIT is also represented in the key markets Mexico and China. The company offers a comprehensive services package to both large and small customers which covers consulting, project management and customized implementation and training. The DiIT support line is available during 24 hours and 365 days. Part of the Komax Group, DiIT operates as an autonomous company. Komax is a global technology group and a leading supplier in the wire processing industry.

 

More information:
Patricia Lange
DiIT GmbH
Ferdinand-Porsche-Str. 3
D-82205 Gilching
Tel.: +49 89 8932500
info@diit.de