A client-server based computer integrated manufacturing system for an epoxy molding compound plant

This paper presents a client server based computer integrated manufacturing system (CIMS) implemented in the epoxy molding compound plant of Toshiba Chemical Singapore Pte Ltd. The system consists of one system server and 27 client workstations linked by Ethernet. It is also connected to different automatic production equipment, such as automated material handling equipment, weighing machines, charging machines, data acquisition devices and instruments. The main functions of the system include production planning, material requirement planning, work order generation, process control, quality control, automated warehouse management and control, shipping planning and management and material cost accounting. Besides focusing on manufacturing and logistic functions, the system also interfaces with purchase, sales and accounting systems in which packaged software are used. The practical use of the CIMS has shown that the application of CIM technology is a vital factor for the company to provide advanced products with constant high quality, reduced production cost and short delivery time.