Software increases production efficiency

Manufacturers looking for ways to optimise their production lines are increasingly being drawn to automated solutions. Suppliers claim that computer-based operational oversight boosts capacity, improves productivity and reduces unit costs by providing full transparency within the production process. MVI Technology's Eventsengine software uses a real-time performance management system to collect data within the production line. The software draws on data that is inputted directly from machine operators to produce a record of the entire days transactions. The software collects and compares information on the performance of different shifts, crews, product runs and production lines using overall equipment effectiveness (OEE) and Cost per Unit measurements. It also monitors quality checks for easy traceability and quality assurance. Manufacturers can then view their fastest and slowest production runs and the factors that caused downtime. By identifying root causes of downtime through Eventsengine's results, manufacturers can set an optimum productivity plans. The system will then monitor the manufacturing line to assure that the line is functioning at the optimum level set by the manufacturer, said the company. While the system is monitoring the production line it employs an alerting mechanism to highlight where current production runs aren't in line with the optimum production plan, allowing manufacturers to take corrective actions, said the company. The system has recently been integrated into the Heinz Single Serve production line. The company claims that within 12 weeks they had reduced product giveaway by 1 per cent and changeover time by 42 per cent. "That led to a five percent increase in capacity with a significant reduction in running costs," said Heinz production manager Jane Buckley. "We can show the teams their target weight each day and how they've performed against it. Previously we just couldn't get that data in a timely manner." MVI Technology is a US-based company with offices in the UK. Since 1991, the company has specialized in IT based solutions for the food and drink sector.

Software increases production efficiency

Performance software can improve production efficiency, quality and maintenance functions for food and drink companies, claims its developer.

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