The available modules are called Base, Traceability, Stock Man- agement, Multi-Job and Line Management. Add-ons mainly deliver interfaces to other systems such as a Tower component storage system. The “Interface Add-On” is an flexible tool. It allows eMIS to communicate with nearly any other system such as ERP or machine.
ePlace, the operation software of Cobra and Paraquda pick-and-place machines, registers all production data in real time. PCB, reels and placement data are logged with reference to each individual component. However, the Traceability module of eMIS converts the bulk data into useful reports. It is filtering and search functions help to find relevant data quickly. For example, components of a job, a PCB or data about specific components are found within seconds. The export function enables the filtered data to be used in other programs such as Excel. The Stock Module identifies all component reels, sticks and trays by unique ID numbers. The stock is always up to date because eMIS communicates with the machines directly and knows, for instance, which components are currently being placed, how many components were refused by vision inspection and if a new component reel is added to stock. Additionally, the software manages expiration dates and calculates the remaining floor lifetime of moisture-sensitivity level (MSL) classified components. These data also are available for traceability analysis. When creating feeder setup lists, it follows the first-in/first out (FIFO) principle. The Stock module allows stock analysis and consumption planning as well. The Multi-Job Module allows multiple PCBs and versions to be combined in one feeder setup. As such, the machine’s feeder capacity is used optimally and there is no need to change feeders between jobs. The mo-dule can optimize with different parameters, for example for maximum placement speed or for minimum setup effort. Planners can decide on-screen which option is more efficient and more convenient to quickly finish the current jobs.
Inline manufacturing lines with multiple pick-and-place machines are prone to delays. To avoid such problems, the Line Management Module optimizes the feeder setup of each module in a way that the workload is evenly distributed. Additionally, it allows building and planning virtual production lines.
eMIS and ePlace are both based on eeZ technology, a software standard innovated by Essemtec. eeZ software is optimized for touch screen monitor operation and, therefore, features simple operation on standard computers with mouse and keyboard, too. The graphical user interface simplifies operation of complex systems such as pick-and-place machines.
productronica, A3.358
