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Automated Part Tracking and Metrology Applied to a Manufacturing Process
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Date
2013
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
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Publisher
Energy Systems Laboratory (http://esl.tamu.edu)
Texas A&M University (http://www.tamu.edu)
Texas A&M University (http://www.tamu.edu)
Abstract
This paper presents a case study in the design of
an automated part tracking and metrology systems for an
industrial manufacturing system. A major productivity
challenge of this facility is managing each batch of parts as it is
formed, treated, and processed. Currently this is handled with
paper forms that are transferred manually with each batch,
resulting in scheduling problems, lost parts, and a general lack
of ability to track orders through the production process.
Problems in quality control also lead to significant waste.
Required part measurements are taken and recorded
manually, and are not considered reliable by plant
management. The prototype design is an automated part
tracking and quality control system to enhance productivity.
The system uses RFID technology to identify parts and
associate them with a particular order, giving management
real-time information on the location of any product batch in
the plant. In addition, part measurement quality control is
enhanced with digitized calipers and scales, thus increases
reliability of part measurement accuracy through human error
reduction.