A+W: Managing the Variety

Software companies in the window and door industry are now handling more complex machine interfaces than ever before. However the activation of individual machines is no longer the actual challenge.

The focus is on the entire process, from raw material to sent element, which must be controlled optimally. The goals here are reliable communication between (hu)man and machine, seamless status tracing, complete elimination of any searching, and optimal efficiency.

If the frame in question is ready in glazing and was registered via bar code reading, the A+W Cantor system moves the appropriate sheet out of the glass buffer.

Interaction in complex systems

Here, the individual machine is just one among many building blocks. Intelligent buffer systems and transport lines are becoming more important in various production areas that interact with machines, for they ensure that the required materials are available in the right place at the right time and can be "parked" correctly before processing.

What you need on the IT side for comprehensive control of such a complex, highly-digitized production environment is a comprehensive software tool that you can use not just to permanently program, but rather to design; one that reacts in real time and controls your production processes precisely according to your requirements. Only with optimal interplay between the buffer system, conveyor technology, and software can you expect optimal results.

This is where you should set the bar for your software providers very high: do they understand your processes? Are they asking the right questions? Do they have experience with the implementation of intelligent buffer and conveyor systems? Can they address suggestions for improvement? Are they well networked with your machine partners?

Here's an example of the production logistics for A+W CANTOR CIM users.

Control of blind frames and buffering

On a frame line, the bar code of each frame is scanned at a particular point. The bar code is transmitted by the conveyor system to the A+W CANTOR system. In communication with the sash and glass buffer, the software determines whether sashes and sheets for this frame are already available.

If so, the frame is conveyed onward to the "wedding." If sashes or sheets are missing, the conveyor system receives the order from A+W CANTOR to store the frame in a buffer.

For frames in the buffer, there is a cyclical check whether sashes or sheets have been made available. If so, the conveyor system receives a transport order in order to convey the frame from the buffer and bring it to the "wedding."

Examining company processes comprehensively

Some companies plan their production in integrated fashion, but unfortunately sometimes apart from the administration and without considering shipping requirements. In the future, these things may no longer be regarded separately if the goal is to achieve optimal efficiency with minimal costs.

Schedule planning, shipping planning, material procurement, storage, customer dates, route plans – all of this has a direct effect on the production organization. All processes must be regarded in integrated fashion – only this way is it possible to achieve optimal results and become a "smart factory."

The path to Industry 4.0

A+W has many years' experience in the implementation of intelligent, networked solutions in window and door production, and is a professional partner for companies that would like to map all processes comprehensively in administration and production.

This includes automatic communication between company departments, between (hu)man and machine, between companies and their market partners – crucial prerequisites for the realization of Industry 4.0.

From the order to the dealer program or the A+W iQuote Webshop to the most complex machine interfaces, on through to the delivery or installation of windows – every step is reflected in A+W Cantor as part of the whole. Talk to us!

YOUR BENEFITS:

• Increased flexibility
• Shorter throughput times
• No searching
• Improved productivity
• Maximum transparency
• Higher earnings