Introducing Tool Execution Logic

After allocating tools to work centers and resources, the allocated production tools are displayed in the Dispatching and Monitoring app within the corresponding work centers and resources. Tools can be reserved to operations in the Dispatching and Monitoring app as part of Resource Orchestration. More details about this process is provided in the section Dispatching and Monitoring section.

Tool Scheduling works on execution-level logic:

• Tools are reserved for specific time windows
• Reservations are evaluated during dispatching
• Execution is only allowed if:
  • Tool is available
  • Reservation is valid

Tool Scheduling ensures execution of feasibility, not optimization.

• Operations requiring unavailable tools:
  • Cannot be dispatched
  • Are deprioritized or blocked

• Tool checks are enforced via:
  • POD plugins
• If a required tool is missing:
  • Execution is blocked
  • User is informed immediately

Within the Dispatching and Monitoring application, tools are fully integrated into the execution process and can be managed directly during operation dispatching.

Supervisors can use the Tools View feature to gain full visibility of all assigned tools. This view:

• Displays all current tool assignments.
• Highlights any overlapping tool usage.
• Enables quick resolution of conflicts by using the Unassign function.

In addition, tools can be assigned directly within the Dispatching and Monitoring application. To reserve a tool for an operation:

• Right-click the desired operation.
• Select the Reserve Tools option.

This functionality ensures efficient tool allocation and helps prevent conflicts during production execution.

• Tool scheduling bridges the gap between strategic planning and shop floor execution by providing real-time visibility and control over tool availability and usage.
• The three core applications (Manage Tools, Schedule Tools, Manage Tool Assignment) work together to provide comprehensive tool lifecycle management.
• Tool reservations are evaluated during dispatching to ensure execution feasibility - operations cannot be dispatched if required tools are unavailable.
• POD plugins enforce tool availability checks at execution time, blocking operations when required tools are missing.
• Tool scheduling focuses on execution feasibility rather than optimization, preventing conflicts and ensuring smooth production flow.