CLOSED LOOP AUTOMATION SOFTWARE Real-time business process management is dependent upon the principles of closed loop automation. Closed loop automation has its roots in process optimization and automation at the machine level. However, with growing emphasis on real-time responsiveness, manufacturers are seeking to more effectively control not only production processes, but also enterprise-level processes to support business objectives by integrating plant operations within enterprise applications. Lean manufacturing initiatives to eliminate waste and boost throughput and the desire to extend supply chain execution dispatching within the plant, make closed loop automation an imperative. Widespread adoption of RFID technology will further increase the ability to quickly close the sense-decide-and-respond loop. Key benefits include: - Real-time trend and correlation analysis for improved performance management decision support
- Predictive maintenance scheduling correlated with throughput and scheduling orders, netting increased throughput
- Automated fault detection, diagnostics and analytics for spotting trends and variability and thus reducing costly downtime, poor quality and missed shipments
- Responsiveness and agility in support of all Lean and SCE initiatives
If performance management is the brain of comprehensive real-time operation strategies, then closed loop automation is its nervous system. It ensures that information from disparate systems and departments is coordinated and leads to action that both accommodates real conditions and achieves business objectives. Applied Materials Closed Loop Automation Software provides intelligent automation and coordination of factory resources, processes, and material. Applied Materials is the world leader in delivering these Closed Loop Automation solutions: Process Control to transform stand-alone factory equipment and sensors so they produce actionable information that better serves semiconductor and electronics factories. Advanced Process Control (APC) that delivers integrated Fault Detection, Classification, eDiagostics, and Run-to-Run control. APC models and enables automated decisions for optimizing control and performance of complex equipment within the context of manufacturing targets on shop floor. Material Control Systems (MCS) that manage and control material handling equipment. Applied Materials MCS systems are equipment vendor independent, interoperable, and industry leaders in both semiconductor and LCD markets.
  
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