Application of intelligent multimedia system in an automation-intensive production line

This paper describes the development of a system involving task-dependent multimedia messages on an automation-intensive production line in a modern manufacturing plant. In order to minimize the mistakes by operators while performing a small percentage of essential (but inevitable) non-automated tasks, a PC-based Intelligent Multimedia Prompt System (IMPS) was conceived. The IMPS is designed to help the operators by reminding them of the steps involved when performing specific non-automated tasks. The three main features of the IMPS are task instructions, interrupt handling and management information. Task instructions prompt the operator about the tasks to be performed. Interrupt handling caters to operations such as abrupt termination of tasks due to unforeseen circumstances. Management information provides task-related information to the supervisors. The IMPS design includes visual displays to correspond with auditory prompt messages. The IMPS was developed for handling manual intervention tasks in the production line of a local manufacturing plant. Laboratory testing and preliminary results indicate that the system is helpful in minimizing human errors.