Development of Machine Connectivity Guidelines for Production Floor

Abstract

This thesis introduces and uses a standardized method for assessing machine connectivity at manufacturing facilities and develops a roadmap for an organization looking to implement connectivity at its facilities. As technology rapidly advances and Industry 4.0 takes hold of manufacturing worldwide, it is essential for manufacturing companies to utilize the latest technology to maintain a competitive advantage by optimizing operations, improving productivity, and increasing throughput. In this work, an overview of machine connectivity and its benefits are presented, and technologies and security measures used for connectivity are explored. Upon compilation of this information, a comprehensive rubric was developed with six weighted connectivity criteria, each scored from 0 (no progress) to 4 (fully complete), from which a total connectivity score can be computed. The rubric serves as a guiding tool for gauging a manufacturing facility’s level of maturity with regards to connectivity, and helps identify areas of need both within a facility and within an organization as a whole. The connectivity levels of six different manufacturing facilities were assessed using the rubric. The results were compiled to understand the development of connectivity at different facilities across the organization. The learnings from this analysis are used to develop guidelines as the organization continues its push towards full connectivity across all of its facilities. The next steps in this initiative are to: 1) utilize the developed rubric to assess connectivity at all of its manufacturing facilities, 2) identify facilities in need of the most resources in order to plan and execute connectivity, and 3) encourage collaboration between facilities to expedite the connectivity implementation process.