Page 315 - Sensors and Control Systems in Manufacturing

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and utilizing new software development tools. A CIM architecture
with open interfaces will allow enterprises to extend the integration
implementation over time to meet changing business needs.
5.8.6.6 Reduced Application Support Cost
A CIM architecture incorporating sensors must also yield applica-
tion solutions at a lower cost than traditional stand-alone comput-
ing. This includes reducing the time and labor required to develop
integrated applications and data. It also means reducing the time
and effort required to keep applications up to speed with the changes
in the enterprise’s systems environment, technology, and integration
needs.

5.8.6.7 Customizable Solutions
Every enterprise has its own business objectives, shared data, system
resources and applications. For example, one enterprise may choose
to address CIM requirements by reducing the cycle time of product
development. It does this by focusing on the data shared between the
product development and process development functions in acceler-
ating the product release process.
Another enterprise’s aim is to reduce the cycle time required to
deliver an order to a customer. It addresses this by exchanging data
between production planning and operations functions and automat-
ing the order servicing and production processes. It must also be able
to customize operations to individual and changing needs over
time.

5.8.6.8 Phased Implementation
Implementing enterprise-wide integration will take place in many
small steps instead of through a single installation. This is because
integration technology is still evolving, implementation priorities are
different, installed bases mature at different rates, new users must be
trained, and lessons will be learned in pilot installations.
As enterprises begin their implementation efforts in phases, they
will be integrating past, present, and future systems and applications.
A CIM architecture must be able to support the integration of this
diverse installed base.

5.8.6.9 Selectable Functions
Most enterprises will want to weigh the benefits of integration against
the impact this change will bring to each application and set of users.
For example, an emphasis on product quality may require that pro-
duction management gain greater insight into the quality of individ-
ual plant operations activities by implementing advanced sensors
and control systems developed for particular applications. When an