Maximizing Error-proofing in Manufacturing with MES/MOM Controlled Assembly Tools

The solution was to integrate a manufacturing execution system in order to error-proof all processes on the assembly line, be it by tool or device, or human. Further, the system contributed to a paradigm shift in that a culture of ‘full-accountability’ was born into the customer’s manufacturing operations. PINpoint MES/MOM provided the customer a web based ‘configurable’ plant floor management system with the added-value of integral manufacturing optimization features. The MES/MOM filled the void between the customer’s Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system and the processes on the assembly line themselves. With the capabilities to both ‘monitor’ and ‘control’ the assembly line processes the MES/MOM ensured no one bit of information or action was unaccounted for. In-turn the process history recorded served to allow for the query of data and output of valuable manufacturing reports which were used to further optimize their manufacturing processes. Concerning their specific physical problem of bolted joint failures the MES/MOM provided full-control over the electric tool itself, with the capability to ‘lock’ the tool should an installation parameter not be met. Locking out the nutrunners eliminated any chance of the line worker from attempting to pass the defective part.