Solutions in control and analysis consist in designing information systems that are able to gather information relevant to decision-making that affect the quality and costs of the final product.
The process begins with the data capture stage. The data can be obtained using sensors, cameras, measurement devices, etc. For example, a microphone turns a sound into an electric signal.
The data is then used by the processing stage. Here, the data is treated as a whole. The gathered signals are modified, stored or transferred as a package without separating it. Continuing with the above example, in this stage the electric signal of the speaker can be filtered, amplified and recorded.
Finally, in the analysis stage the data is sorted by identifying the content. Analysis transforms the data into information. Concluding the example, the signal can be analyzed to find any particular sound: a word, the crash of a glass, etc.
The analysis stage is the one that generates the most value for an organization. Signal capture and processing on increases the volume of data available. But how is that data converted into answers? A plant manager needs to know if the measures taken to improve quality area actually improving quality. If not, which process variable should be corrected? The answers to that question has a great value.
As part of a second stage (after the inspection of the copper cathodes) Aplik has developed a technology for handling production data along with a mechanism which permits tracing both copper cathodes and blanks.
This aim of handling additional data is to provide information relevant the reduction of processing costs and the improvement in the quality of the copper cathodes.