What Is Factory Visualization Software?
Factory Visualization Software is designed to predict problematic events and identify and solve the causes of problems that occur in factories.
Traditional visualization involves managing visible people and objects. However, the increasing complexity of factory equipment, systems, and human resources has made daily visual checks inadequate. Additionally, a significant amount of time is spent accumulating and scrutinizing information.
As human activities in factories change rapidly, relying solely on conventional visualization can reduce production efficiency. Invisible problems with equipment may also lead to serious accidents and oversights.
Recent advancements in information systems have led to the adoption of the Internet of Things (IoT) in factories, enabling real-time collection, storage, and analysis of information. This integration enhances efficiency and detects even minor changes.
Introduction of Factory Visualization Software
Factory Visualization Software using IoT covers both production and logistics processes. Today’s production processes, increasingly automated by robots, may overlook abnormalities. IoT integration sends immediate alerts to managers when issues are detected, minimizing damage.
In logistics, RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) tags are used to collect data on location and inspection information, aiding in shipping and inventory management. RFID is an electronic tag that uses radio waves to read and write information on RF tags without contact.
Since around 2020, partly due to the Coronavirus Pandemic, efforts have been made to connect all factory equipment to the Internet, leading to the emergence of “smart factories”. This term was first coined in Germany in 2011.
Use of Factory Visualization Software
Several systems increase the effectiveness of Factory Visualization Software. One key system is QCDS (Quality, Cost, Delivery, Safety), focusing on evaluating products, shortening lead times, and reducing excess inventory.