Automating quality control

Error proofing allows you to prevent mistakes from occurring in automated processes. It also allows you to identify production flaws so bad parts can be pulled for re-work or scrap, never leaving the factory. The sooner defects are identified within the production processes, the less expensive it is to fix or remove from production.

Identification technology enables manufacturing processes to proactively prevent errors from occurring. In the case of flexible manufacturing or batch of one production, identifiers applied to product carriers and each individual product is tracked through the production process. By identifying products through every production step, machine configurations and processes are carried out accurately as defined by the individual product, essentially a digital build instruction for machines. The quality inspection data is logged in the QMS for each product. At line diverters, or end-of-line, any failed products will be diverted for scrap or rework. This means quality assurance!

In Food and Beverage manufacturing, it is essential that the right connections are made to the right ports at flow panels for proper mixing and cleaning procedures. By applying unique identifiers to unions, the production control system can assure the flow panels are connected properly. Now there is 100% assurance that mixtures are right and processes are completed correctly.