E-Mobile
The basic assumption used for the E-Mobile module, developed by Eurotronic, was to simplify the process of entering data into the central database of the following systems: Infor EAM, ZMT, MP2 and SZEOR. Specific working conditions at technical departments called for the development of a tool that allowed users to enter data via mobile devices working off-line. The main goal for using such solutions was to eliminate the need to generate printed documents and populate them with information. We are well aware of the fact that data in printed form might produce a significant margin of error. Moreover, feeding the system with such data is time consuming and may lead to even more errors.
E-Mobile launches an engine for exporting selected data from the central database, and then imports it into a mobile device working off-line. The updated data from the mobile device level is exported into a medium of any type, and then imported into the central database.
E-Mobile and Infor EAM example architecture
Synchronizing data between the central system and the mobile device
Updates of data between the central system and the mobile device working off-line might be carried out via a portable storage device of any type (Flash USB, CD) or via automatic synchronization, carried out after connecting to the central database. Data transfer is executed in compliance with all the basic security requirements (data encryption, checksums).
Depending on the user’s needs, E-Mobile functional areas can be launched on a single mobile device, but each of the components can also be launched on a separate device. The specific configuration of the module and the scope of application determine the type of devices that are applied. The deployment projects completed so far have allowed us to launch the module on the following types of devices: PDAs, data collectors, laptops, desktop PCs.
E-Mobile configuration options
Due to the extensive diversity of requirements related to off-line data registration, the E-Mobile configuration options must provide flexibility. The current release of the module allows users to configure it within three areas.
Connection configuration
The first option allows users to define the source system areas supported with the use of the module (mobile devices). Due to independent functioning of some of the system components, module configuration makes it possible to define separate data sets, which can be processed and exchanged separately on various devices.
Mobile device configuration
The first step of the configuration is to define the type of device supporting the E-Mobile module. The next configuration stages are related to the scope of the registered data and the assumptions presented by the prospective users of the module. It is possible to configure the following elements: splash screen, menu, naming convention, individual screens, system filters, data registration process.
User right configuration
One of the essential elements to ensure proper data processing is the option to define the data set to be exchanged between the central server and the E-Mobile module. The created data sets are assigned to individual users, and the direction of the data exchange is defined (data set export, data set import). Moreover, system filters limiting the scope of data to be exchanged are defined for each user and each data set.
E-Mobile functionality
System catalogues
All the catalogues used for the implemented processes are transferred from the central database during each update. In order to limit the scope of transferred data, it is possible to restrict the catalogues by means of system filters assigned to users. Sample catalogues include: machine catalogue, device (facility) catalogue, classification codes, departments, employees, etc.
Work order completion
The process of submitting work orders is one of the main elements supported by E-Mobile. The scope of output data includes such information as:
- Work order basic data,
- Actions, including subject matter scope,
- Bills of materials with planned quantities,
- Routes with inspection points,
- Equipment,
- Employees assigned to complete the task,
- Attachments in the form of external documents.
Data updates might involve registering the following information:
- Number of working hours,
- Built-in spare parts,
- Inspection results for individual points,
- Equipment utilization,
- Attaching new external files,
- Changing work order or action status.
Warehouse operation support
The use of mobile devices featuring barcode scanners allows users to register data related to basic warehouse operations. Sample elements of this functional area include:
- Selecting spare parts from the warehouse,
- Returning spare parts to the warehouse,
- Stocktaking.
Support for the presented processes does not require source data downloads. Data can be updated via a unilateral process.
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