Our client, a cutting-edge manufacturing facility renowned for precision engineering, faced challenges in efficiently managing tools across their shop floor. With an extensive array of tools critical to their production processes, the client sought a solution to streamline tool management, reduce downtime, and enhance overall operational efficiency.
The Challenge
The client encountered significant challenges related to tool management:
Tool Misplacement: Tools were often misplaced, leading to delays in production as workers spent valuable time searching for the right equipment.
Manual Tracking: The existing manual tracking system was prone to errors, making it difficult to maintain an accurate inventory of tools and their usage.
Downtime Impact: Unplanned tool downtime was affecting production schedules, resulting in missed deadlines and increased operational costs.
What did
SRKS do
To address these challenges, we introduced the Tool Pulse – Centralized Shop Floor Tool Management System:
RFID-Enabled Tracking: Implemented RFID technology to enable real-time tracking of tools, providing accurate location data and minimizing the risk of misplacement.
Centralized Database: Established a centralized database accessible to all relevant personnel, ensuring up-to-date information on tool availability, usage history, and maintenance schedules.
Automated Tool Checkout/Check-in: Introduced an automated system for tool checkout and check-in, reducing the time spent on manual tracking and improving the overall efficiency of tool management.
Predictive Maintenance: Integrated a predictive maintenance feature to anticipate tool maintenance needs, reducing the likelihood of tool failures and minimizing unplanned downtime.
The Results
- Reduced Tool Search Time: Real-time tracking significantly reduced the time spent searching for tools, allowing workers to focus on productive tasks and minimizing production delays.
- Improved Accuracy: The centralized system eliminated manual tracking errors, providing an accurate and up-to-date inventory of tools, leading to more efficient resource allocation.
- Enhanced Productivity: Automated tool checkout and check-in streamlined processes, minimizing administrative burdens and allowing workers to dedicate more time to core production activities.
- Cost Savings: Predictive maintenance reduced the frequency of tool failures, resulting in cost savings associated with unplanned downtime and emergency tool replacements.
