MES Software: Manufacturing Execution Systems
EZ-MES
A Manufacturing Execution System (MES) is an information system that is focused
on the execution of manufacturing. The actual execution happens by performing
manufacturing operations.
The central core of the EZ-MES Manufacturing Execution Software has a very flexible
model for manufacturing operations, enabling you to model virtually any kind of
manufacturing process.
The Operation as the Core of EZ-MES
In abstract terms the core of an MES system is simple:
- You have a manufacturing process (flow) that is a sequence of operations.
- Each operation has:
- Inputs
- Equipment
- Material
- Consumables
- Labor
- Location / Facilities
- Instructions
- Trigger that starts the operation
- Outputs
- Information (Data Collection)
- Material
- To complete the operation checks can be performed
- Check any information (can be calculated) with process specifications
- Check information with product specifications
- Based on the information gathered automatic actions can be taken when the operation is completed
- Send out email notification
- Show popup message
- Reposition material to other flows
- On top of this you have time triggered automatic checks for Preventative Maintenance (PM), material expiration
dates etc.
For all of this you need full traceability.
The difference between MES and ERP
(Manufacturing Execution System and Enterprise Resource Planning)
The main difference between MES and ERP is the focus. The focus of the ERP System
is the Purchase Order, while the focus of the MES is the actual manufacturing operation.
According to the ISA 95 model both systems are located in different layers. MES
is settled within Level 3 for Manufacturing Operations and Control. ERP on the other hand is found in Level
4 for Business Planning and Logistics.
Both systems can grow into the other level.