Andon Radio Data Capture

Hi

I just got hired as a Co-op student at a manufacturing company called Navistar where transporter trucks are assembled, http://chtsvw08.cht.navistar.com/ this is the link to it. Being new to the company and the manufacturing process I noticed several issues with the way the parts are handled at the workstation. After talking to my supervisor and discussing the 5 year improvement plan I decided to work on Andon communication system which will eliminate the shortages and get the assembly process up to speed.

There are several companies such as: http://www.oeeimpact.co.uk/ , http://www.andonsystems.co.uk/menu_key.htm that can help find the solutions to the communication problems found on the floor. Only those companies sell their ideas above the normal cost of $6500 pounds. The actual components cost that take to setup the system and the software that should only be around $2000. Cost is the reason why I am trying to investigate a cheaper and more flexible approach.

I guess my question would be addressed to all the networking and software development engineers, and anyone that is interested in researching the interfacing subject of everyday industrial automation. The problems I'm facing are:

1. The components used to make the output device and how the signal can be transmitted with the use of buttons.(Transmitter)

2. Interface the output signal to the computer. What would be the best receiver? (receiver connected to the computer)

3. Automatic log of data into the spreadsheet. What program would be best to transform the data into readable format such as Excel, and if it possible just to input data into Excel spreadsheet without any use of other programs. (Program that can log the info.)

Abstract

The worker at the workstation informs the floor supervisor through radio of a part shortage. The signal is stored in the program. The call is answered and the problem is taken care of in the prioritized manner, depending on its magnitude. The signal is stored for analysis and reviewed for later improvements.

Thanks for any help and advices. Appreciate everyone's time.

Tim