Olympus Automation Improves PDX Autocoding

It’s the start of another year and Autocoding has come a long way since Olympus Automation developed the original system over 10 years ago. Last year it released the PDX Performance, next generation OEE factory performance reporting software. PDX Performance can be run as an add on or standalone piece of software, allowing real time factory performance to be viewed on a smartphone or other devices, enabling manufactures to tackle shop-floor issues that directly impact their bottom line. Early adopters of the system, Adams Foods, achieved ROI in 4 month. Olympus Automation gives its predictions on where Autocoding will be in the future:

Autocoding will offer complete packaging line control

Packaging lines are prone to having independent machinery with fillers, sleever machines and flow wrappers supplied by different manufacturers. Autocoding has expanded from scanner, printer and labeller control to now include metal detectors and checkweighers integration. This will be further extended to all packaging machinery allowing complete control from one system.

SCADA integration will Dynamically Link Production and Packing
On a number of sites Olympus Automation has integrated SCADA with Autocoding, linking production data dynamically to the packaging line. Integration between production and packing will become increasingly prevalent as manufacturers optimise factory performance.

Total Factory Performance will be Accurate, Transparent and in Real Time

Integrated systems allow the capture of data from various sources from the factory floor, offering a complete picture of total factory performance or OEE. Accurate and transparent reporting of this data is required to identify bottlenecks and underperforming areas. Real time reporting of giveaway and OEE allows critical adjustment to be made during production as opposed to post production. Real time reporting of data and automatic adjustment will significantly improve performance and the profitability of manufacturers.

Fundamental developments of Autocoding will further improve the profitability of food manufacturers

In the past Autocoding has been seen as a form of insurance to prevent label and date code errors and the ensuing fines.  Developments such as live checkweigher links have improved profitability through giveaway reduction and this trend of PDX Autocoding improving business performance will continue through integration and effective reporting.