Effective Tool Management

An effective tool management system has to have sophisticated database functionality, yet it is essential that every aspect of the system is easy to use, or theoretical benefits will never materialize. It has to be flexible enough to cope with a myriad of tooling products, with diverse non-standard product codes from multiple suppliers, yet enable the user to record the tool information, the way they wants to record it, with ease and 100% consistency.

Sign On

ToolManager has a complete multi-level security system that allows the administrator to selectively chose the options and features each user may have access to. The system has been performance tuned to work well in a modern PC LAN network environment with 100’s of users.

New Tool

This module features a "Tool Wizard” to ensure all users follow the same tool naming convention and consistent tool ID format when entering tools. The Tool “Wizard” can be configured to reflect virtually any tool numbering system. RealVision has put significant development into creating an environment that allows users to design a numbering system for their tools, and make it very easy for operators to enter a new tool number using the chosen ID.

Issue/Return Tools

ToolManager has a special stand alone executable for the issue and return of tools. This means tool crib personnel dedicated to the distribution of tooling may utilize this ultra simple interface with a minimal learning curve. ToolManager not only tracks tool usage but also tracks tools, fixtures and gages by location.

Tool Catalog

Finding a specific tool without having to search through the complete tool store cabinets and bins is a daunting and time consuming task especially when you have 1,000’s of tools. ToolManager’s Tool Catalog allows you to quickly find and pick tools for multiple functions. (View ToolCatalog Screen)

"To-Do" List

Because the tool store is a very dynamic environment, heavy demands are placed on personnel to deliver tools on schedule to keep the machines running. This can be very difficult for personnel as their day is usually one continuous set of interruptions with tool replacements needed ASAP, changing job schedules and shift changes, etc. The “ToDo” list keeps track of all the outstanding actions required to maintain an efficient tool store.

Tool List Manager

Once you have stocked tools, the user will need to issue these tools so a part can be machined. Issuing the tools one at a time is just not efficient. Creating and managing tool lists is the only way to handle jobs with multiple tool requirements.

Tool Graphics

ToolManager allows many different forms of graphics to be associated with each tool. ToolManager supports digital photos - as many as 99 for each tool. The photos can have hot spots which will display text and/or embedded voice. The graphic tool icon allows the association of a standard default graphic for each tool type. There is also a blue print viewer which allows the detail drawings from nearly any CAD system to be linked with a specific tool gage or fixture. An optional viewer allows direct viewing of AutoCAD DWG and DXF files and features red lining of drawings.

Reports

The reports feature offers a wide variety of standard reports including tool operation sheets and perishable list for specific work orders.

Requestor

One unique feature of ToolManager is the operator Pick program. This is a stand alone program which can be used any where in the shop - at the machine, in the programming office, etc. to select and request tools for use on the floor. This feature alone can improve your shop through put and efficiency tremendously!!! This version will be a JAVA application by the end of the 1st quarter 2002