ERP store floor data networking is an important topic in manufacturing companies. ERP software is a set standard for company equipment, and there are various versions of these systems. What is certain is that the business processes of a company are generally already supported and mapped in a very detailed and integrated manner by ERP systems. ERP data processes do not deal with the store floor and therefore often lead a very diverse, isolated existence. Analyses show the clear gap between the "office floor" and the "store floor". There are still two "data worlds" here. With its FactoryDirector manufacturing data management software, Coscom has the solution to this issue: ERP-shopfloor data networking - improved data provision for greater agility, security and efficiency in data processing.

ERP store floor data networking

With FactoryDirector, the company has developed a universal solution for data networking between ERP and production. This is a database application that is used precisely at the interface between the office floor and the store floor. In the overall data process, FactoryDirector is clearly positioned below the ERP system; ERP data is enriched with production-related information and made available on the store floor accordingly. The special feature of this software solution is its compatibility. It is the data link between the ERP system and the operational IT systems (CAD/CAM, simulation, tool management, tool presetting, machines, etc.) on the store floor. The diversity of the store floor systems is brought down to a "technical data denominator" and centralized communication with the ERP system is achieved. Coscom's store floor expertise merges with the expertise of the ERP provider to form a standardized data project at the application company.

ERP gateway into production

With standardized data communication, the software solution can now also be used to enrich ERP data on the store floor and use additional information. The structure of Coscom FactoryDirector's production data management is created on the basis of article master data (material master data). Data systems such as ERP and/or PLM systems can now be integrated into the data process as leading data provision systems. The product thus serves as an "ERP gateway" to production - with the following advantages: It ensures individually enriched start information for operational store floor applications, such as CAD/CAM, virtual machines or automation systems. It also concentrates the corresponding production information for the digital workbook and takes over the control function for DNC operations, such as change management, release and more.

Secure data workflow

The FactoryDirector receives material master data for the production part from the ERP system. This includes, for example, material numbers, material, drawing data, change or revision numbers and work plans with machine assignments. This information is structured and linked with other logical information. FactoryDirector also serves as a starting platform for CAD/CAM systems. Started from this, the CAD/CAM system is already in the correct starting state from the outset. The ERP data ensures the correct machine preallocation (postprocessor), a predefined NC program name or the correct selection of cutting data via the ERP material assignment. Information that has already been created in the ERP system thus reaches the operative IT systems in the production environment. This means no duplicate data creation and no breaks in the data process.

Production data generated on the store floor, such as NC programs, tool lists, setup plans, etc., are assigned to the ERP material master in FactoryDirector and can thus be transferred to digital info points in production or CNC machines in a targeted manner. A change service initiated via the leading ERP system is used by FactoryDirector right through to data transfer to the CNC machine - according to the company, this ensures greater process reliability and avoids rejects and rework.