Behind the innovations: MESbook

Diego Sáez de Eguílaz Cámara Socio Director de MESbook
Diego Sáez de Eguílaz Cámara | Socio Director de MESbook

Advanced Manufacturing – What was the motivation to start developing this product?

Diego Sáez de Eguílaz – The motivation to develop APQP Digital came from the need to transform the traditional approach to quality management, with a major challenge in the world of aviation, since APQP is normally implemented in the automotive sector where there is a high volume of manufacturing and few references, whereas in the aeronautical industry there are many references and it may be the only time that product is manufactured, so the control is more directed at the process.

 

Whatever the process we have to manage, whether it is cold stamping with progressive press or transfer, bar turning, bending, punching, machining, assembly, welding, laser cutting, etc., the most important thing is to have control of the relevant points of our process.

 

MESbook makes it possible to ensure that work is carried out as previously defined (efficiency), helping people to:

 

  • Avoid mistakes and forgetfulness.
  • Ensure that work is carried out in accordance with the latest level of process design.
  • Make the right set-ups of the machines.
  • Make it easier for everyone to work in sync.
  • Make the best use of human resources and machines.
  • Reduce inventory.
  • Make knowledge the property of the company and not only of the workers.
Mesbook

A.M. – Can you tell us what the product development process was like, any anecdotes or stones that got in the way?

D.S. – The development process was long and challenging, but rewarding. It started with a thorough investigation of our client’s needs.

One of the biggest challenges was integrating various systems (ERP, MES and SCADA) and getting all the quality tools to work seamlessly on a single platform and interconnected. There were technological challenges related to the connectivity of industrial devices and the integration of real-time data. However, with the formation of the Project Team (Client-Supplier) a robust and effective solution was achieved.

 

A.M. – What is the technology behind this innovation?

D.S. -More than ‘the’ technology, we can talk about combination of different technologies, the Digital APQP is based on advanced Industry 4.0 technologies including IoT, Big Data, Artificial Intelligence and Cloud Computing to integrate and analyse data from multiple sources in real time.

 

These technologies enable seamless integration between ERP, MES, and machines, facilitating real-time data analysis and therefore tactical and strategic decision making. The connectivity between these systems ensures complete visibility and traceability along the entire value chain.

A.M. – What are the main advantages offered by this innovative product, what needs does it cover and how can it improve the life of companies?

D.S. – As I have mentioned throughout the interview, the main benefit of APQP Digital is the complete integration of quality management, starting from the basis of ‘learning from what is made’, which allows real-time control and continuous improvement of processes.

 

Some other advantages are:

 

Reduction of defects and rework: immediate error detection reduces defects by up to 30%.

Operational efficiency: process automation reduces quality management time by 40%.

 

Regulatory compliance: facilitates compliance with regulations such as IATF 16949 and ISO 9100.

Traceability and visibility: ensures a more transparent supply chain and facilitates audits. It also reduces overhead costs, and improves customer satisfaction by enabling companies to meet quality standards more efficiently.

 

A.M. – Which industries are you mainly targeting for innovation?

D.S. -APQP Digital is mainly aimed at industrial sectors that require a high level of quality control and regulatory compliance, such as: automotive, aeronautics, metallurgy, and other industrial sectors with complex manufacturing processes, such as plastics or heavy machinery.

 

A.M. – What are the main obstacles faced by a company that wants to develop an innovative product?

D.S. -Developing an innovative product, including Digital APQP, involves several challenges:

 

Resistance to change: many companies have established processes that, although inefficient, are deeply embedded in their operations. Convincing managers and operators of the need to digitise processes is not easy.
Systems integration: Getting multiple platforms and devices to work together and interconnect can be complex.
Upfront costs: the initial investment in digital infrastructure for companies starting from a point of zero digitisation can be high, which may discourage some companies from adopting new technologies.
Regulatory compliance and standards: Complying with industry and quality standards, such as IATF 16949 and ISO 9100, requires a meticulous and adaptable approach to each sector, which can be difficult as new technologies are implemented.

Ultimately, APQP Digital represents not only an innovation in quality management, but a true revolution for the factories of the future. Thanks to its integration with advanced technologies, it helps companies improve efficiency, reduce costs and ensure quality in real time.

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