ATS Software Development has released a new version of its manufacturing execution system, ATS CIMLine MES. ATS CIMLine's unique feature is the direct, real-time connection to actual events in the manufacturing or process environment.
Data received from the process (via the control layer - PLC, etc) is converted into information and presented to managers or operators for immediate decision making. This new concept means decision making is based on real data.
Until now most MES has been based upon planned data, leading to manufacturing and process inefficiencies when things do not quite follow the initial plan.
ATS CIMLine MES bridges the gap between the management (ERP) level and the control level and provides a real-time view of orders and the production process.
Using objective data, it becomes clear where and when costs occur, management of the production process improves and errors are avoided. By using information from the production process investment plans can be adjusted to secure a competitive manufacturing process.
The vision for MES, developed in the late 90's, can now be successfully implemented with ATS CIMLine MES. A combination of an SQL-server with an open system and hardware and software systems using an N-tier architecture using international standards form the basis of a continuous data stream.
The data is transferred securely, with message-queuing technology using XML, from all layers of the company to the server. A Windows/Client application provides a standard analysis system.
All processed data is sent real-time to the database in a fault tolerant format and is event-orientated. Actual information is immediately received about relevant criteria such as orders from customers, production cost centres, work and machine status, breakdowns etc.
Naturally, the security access per user, program, function and data access can be easily implemented.
ATS CIMLine MES is built up from modules and the standard or user specific interface allows SQL to reach the specific information layer required for each module.
By using a Microsoft environment it's possible to make personal, special analyses, for instance with MS-Office applications.
By using ATS CIMLine MES production costs can be significantly reduced and the efficiency of the production process improved with the direct interface to the control automation layer. ATS International 03 9425 9155.