Operations Management and TechnologyRoss L. Fink

Design TechnologyComputer-Aided Design (CAD)

Refers to the use of computers to interactively design products and prepare engineering documentation

http://www.swissspecialties.com/product2.htm

Design TechnologyComputer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) Refers to the use of specialized computer

programs to direct and control manufacturing equipment

Design TechnologyBenefits of CAD and CAM

Product quality Shorter design time Production cost reductions Database availability New range of capabilities Reduces need for “similar” parts

Production Technology

Numerically controlled machines Numerical control Computer numerical control Direct numerical control

Process control Vision systems Robots Automated storage and retrieval systems Automated guided vehicles Flexible manufacturing systems Computer integrated manufacturing

Production TechnologyProcess Control - Operation Sensors, often analog devices, collect data Analog devices read data on some periodic basis, perhaps once

a minute or once a second Measurements are translated into digital signals, and

transmitted to a digital computer Computer programs read the file (the digital data) and analyze

the data Output may be a: message on printer or console, signal to a

motor to change a value setting, warning light or horn, process control chart, etc.

Photo S7.7

Machines that hold, move, or grasp items

Perform monotonous or dangerous tasks

Used when speed, accuracy, or strength are needed

© 1984-1994 T/Maker Co.

Production TechnologyRobots

Automated Storage and Retrieval System (ASRS)

Provide for automatic placement and withdrawal of parts and products into and from designated places in a warehouse.

Material handling machines

Used to move parts & equipment in manufacturing

May be used to deliver mail & meals in service facilities

© 1984-1994 T/Maker Co.

Production TechnologyAutomatic Guided Vehicles (AGV)

Using automated machines (DNC) & materials handling equipment together

Often connected to centralized computer

Also called automated work cell

Computer

Machine 1

Machine 2

Robotor AGV

Auto ToolChg.

Auto ToolChg.

Flexible Manufacturing Systems (FMS)

Production TechnologyFMS - Pros & Cons

Advantages Faster, lower-cost changes from one part to another Lower direct labor costs Reduced inventory Consistent, and perhaps better quality

Disadvantages Limited ability to adapt to product or product mix changes Requires substantial preplanning and capital

expenditures Technological problems of exact component positioning

and precise timing Tooling and fixture requirements

Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Packaged business software systems that

allow companies to: Automate and integrate the majority of their

business processes Share common data and practices across the

entire enterprise Produce and access information in a real-time

environment

Advantages of ERP

Provides integration of supply-chain, production and administrative processes

Creates commonality of databases Can incorporate improved, redesigned, “best processes: Increases communication and collaboration worldwide Helps integrate multiple sites and business units Is packaged with a software core that is off-the-shelf

coding Can provide a strategic advantage over competitors

Disadvantages of ERP

Is very expensive to purchase, and even more costly to customize

Requires major changes in the company and its processes to implement

Is such a complex program that many companies cannot adjust to it

Involves an ongoing process for implementation, which is often never completed

Expertise in ERP is limited, with staffing an ongoing problem

Internet Uses

Supply Chain Management -- Business Networking Exchange of information

Purchasing Transactions Identifying vendors Qualifying vendors Order tracking Price negotiation Feedback

Internet Uses

Interface with legacy systems Design Order fulfillment Scheduling (Production or Personnel) Project management Quality control Inventory management Capacity