NEI Parsons intelligent measurement and routing system

In order to comply with NEI Parsons´ CIM strategy, a system was required which would integrate with other systems, particularly the factory information control system (FICS) and the tender estimating system, both being in-house developments. The measurement and routing system has already been successfully implemented in the turbine blade manufacturing area and is currently supplying FICS with accurate and timely information. The engineer can produce routes in a matter of minutes rather than hours for blade types stored in the system. Further by-products of the system are already becoming apparent. Information on tooling requirements can be produced automatically in readiness for component production to start, information for process planning can be supplied and tender estimates can now be produced to a higher degree of detail within a very short space of time. The system takes the form of an expert system shell and is now being adapted for use in other areas. It is envisaged that many of the manufacturing departments within the company will eventually benefit from its introduction