Do I even need an assistance system?

Surely there are scenarios that can do without special instructions: Are you a lone wolf who only deals with contract work and the technical complexity of your tools is limited? Then you can rely on your training and experience. Is your assembly so highly automated that human intervention is superfluous? Here too, an assistance system would be out of place - although this situation can only make sense for very standardized products and high quantities.

But for most companies, assistance systems are associated with major advantages. For example, workers spend less time searching, trying things out and asking questions. No matter who assembles: A fixed, standardized assembly process ensures consistently high quality. This results in fewer rework and complaint costs.

From a piece of paper to a digital assistance system

There are cases in which a traditional piece of paper with instructions - for example in the form of a handwritten note or a printed PDF file - is "assistance system" enough. This always applies if these instructions are uncomplicated and localized, permanently valid and must be available to everyone at all times. This includes instructions on how to use a fire extinguishing system or an explanation of a machine's constant peculiarity, which should be taken into account every time the machine is started, for example (and should actually be automated).

However, with processes that change from time to time, are complex, apply regardless of location and need to be updated quickly if necessary, the disadvantages of paper-based management are obvious: information can easily go out of date unnoticed, quickly becomes confusing and is difficult to exchange. There may also be different versions of the same information circulating. You should consider a digital solution at the latest when your assembly manager, who is listed everywhere, retires and it would be easier to find another person with the same name for the position than to change all the notices.

Digital assistance systems - a foundation with potential

A digital assistance system should be designed to grow with your requirements. Even in its basic features, it eliminates many of the problems that would arise, for example, when dealing with individual PDF files in a makeshift manner: There is no version confusion and all users receive changes made quickly and reliably from a defined source. In addition, only the information that is really needed is displayed in different situations, which provides a clear overview.

The initial investment is also limited with web-based solutions: Users do not need a powerful computer - instead, practically any end device can be used. Additional stations can be added easily.

Other advantages of digital assistance systems include:
- The central control and creation of work plans saves time and ensures uniformity - across multiple plants if required.
- The amount of documentation required during assembly and the risk of incorrect documentation is greatly reduced. The assembly process can be tracked in detail.
- The direct connection to existing ERP systems further reduces the administrative effort.
- Any subsequent additions are easy to implement thanks to standardized interfaces - for example pick-by-light systems, parameterized tools, test cells or robotics.
- Different content can be displayed for different users - for example with regard to skill level or native language.

A partner for a future-proof solution

The Bott Group is an experienced expert in manual assembly and digital assistance systems. Here you can obtain assembly lines, individual workstations and assistance software from a single source. In-depth consultation will show you how to achieve your goal step by step and integrate new components into your existing system landscape. You will also receive valuable application training right through to operational use. Arrange a consultation appointment now.