"Where the MES meets its limits – that's where the MOM starts. In detail, this means that the Manufacturing Execution System has essential functionalities for the Smart Factory, which continue to be useful, but not as a monolithic system," explains Martin Heinz, board member of iTAC Software AG.
MOM opens up levels of flexibility for digitalization and connectivity
A MOM system is a further development of an MES – designed for predictable production that makes use of the latest IIoT technology. Thus, the iTAC.MOM.Suite has all necessary functions for connecting and automating processes. It is modular and scalable, and its openness allows it to be seamlessly integrated into customers' digital platform strategies. The MOM solution enables real-time control, optimization and prediction of production processes using AI. It combines the typical MES functions with solutions for control, planning and analytics as well as IIoT capabilities. The MOM system functionally covers all processes that take place on the shop floor, i.e., in the area between the machines and the ERP system. In addition, it offers the connection of interfaces to upstream systems of factory planning and design (such as APS, operative area planning, etc.) as well as to higher-level systems (ERP, PLM, etc.).
Data becomes usable and generates added value
Predictive systems in particular require accurate, up-to-date, and complete data. These come from different sources and must be contextualized to achieve data consistency and quality. This is what a MOM is able to do. It helps to set up the required vertical and horizontal information flows, collects and analyzes data. It also identifies optimization potential and supports implementation.
"By integrating analytics functionalities, the MOM offers new possibilities to predict production results based on captured IIoT and MES data. These predictions can address quality and production performance as well as potential manufacturing downtime. Preventive and predictive services, as well as the integration of edge technologies, result in optimization, more value added and data sovereignty," explains Martin Heinz.
