Bar Coding/Automated Data Collection
Automated Data Collection Technology
Utilizes the use of machine-readable bar code symbols for quick and accurate transition of information. In our Metalworking Lubricants Company’s typical system, bar codes are affixed to articles/systems that need to be identified and tracked. The bar codes include information about the item being tracked (i.e. location, name, and requirements). The information is automatically transferred at any time the scanner is passed over the label. This information can then be transferred into a host computer, where it is readily available for manipulation and use.
Attributes of Automated Data Collection
Information must be timely and accurate to be valuable. Automated Data Collection ensures timeliness and accuracy in two basic ways:
1. Speed/Efficiency
Unlike data collected manually, there is virtually no delay between the time data is scanned and when it can be made available. This feature is referred to as “real-time compilation”. This assures the information being reported is absolutely current.
2. Accuracy of Data
With an ever increasing amount of data being gathered, information errors cannot be tolerated. In a normal, manual process, identification numbers, locations, names, batch numbers, product codes and various other data types can be incorrectly transcribed. The cost of even one such error can be significant. With ADC, users can expect error rates of less than one in three million characters as compared to one in three hundred for a manual process. Therefore, the data collected is nearly flawless.
Bar Coding - Implementation Plan
1. Our Lubrication Management Implementation Program identifies all systems and lubricants needed.
- Assign launch team to facility, as many as twelve representatives.
- Produce outline to attack program task.
- Assign task per technician qualification.
- Review machine builders’ manuals.
2. We evaluate systems to establish a history for performance recording.
- Review maintenance records pertaining to a particular system.
- Establish prior sample data.
- Establish sampling frequencies.
- Review testing categories.
- Expand data collection.
- Implement action plan.
3. We establish labeling to assure the proper product is being added.
- Review lubrication specifications with Engineering.
- Disburse equipment.
- Color, shape, product description on labels.
- Machine diagrams with plotted lube points and lube type.
- Area manual identifying all lube points within an area.
4. We create a system to easily and effectively monitor system usage.
- Computerized data base.
- Proprietary bar code labels.
- Data collection units.
- Training of personnel.
5. We will determine a plan of action for each system.
- Identify problem.
- Awareness of responsible area manager.
- Discuss course of action.
- Follow-up until complete.
- Failure analysis.
6. Finally, we will instruct your personnel regarding managing the lubes under this program.
- Schedule meeting with Chemical Management Committee.
- Schedule meeting with HMCC Committee.
- Schedule meeting with local bargaining groups.
- Personnel waste minimization awareness training.
- Schedule meeting with Plant Training Coordinator.