Methodology for consideration of product quality within factory automation engineering

The present paper deals with the question how product quality can be influenced within the engineering of factory automation systems. It focuses on discrete manufacturing processes and presents a methodology to gather and analyze relevant influences on product quality within a so called MPFQ-model. The model is based on four main elements: Materials, Processes, Functions and Quality. The paper brings together functional design/thinking in plant design with product and manufacturing design. It will show the basic architecture behind the MPFQ model and how quality influences can be methodically detected. Afterwards the application of the MPFQ-model will be shown and benefits will be evaluated.