Coding &Classification in Manufacturing
Coding systems for manufacturing usually have both product and process information. The
analyst works with both.
If there is a great deal of inconsistency in existing processes, the analyst can revert to
the more fundamental characteristics such as size, shape and material.
Parts with similar physical characteristics should usually have similar processes. The coding
system allows an analyst to standardize process routings and then group the parts into families.
The example below shows a small part of a database for castings. Each digit position
represents a particular part characteristic. For examples the third position indicates the
casting's finished weight.
Each character in the code carries information about the product characteristic assigned to
that digit position. For example, a "1" the third character position might indicate a finished
weight between 1.0 and 5.0 pounds.
Through sorting, retrieval and specialized algorithms, the analyst groups similar parts as
shown.
Implementing Coding & Classification
Coding and Classification presents some major challenges that are not usually evident to an
inexperienced practitioner. This is especially true of large databases. But, then, large
projects, have correspondingly large returns.
A successful project requires experience and judgment in coding system design, initial coding
and in family development. It is not a task for the novice.
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