AM Schedule Optimizer Enables Cost Optimization for Production Processes

The configurable Synoptik Production Scheduling Optimizer analyzes AI-based relevant production data and identifies optimal economic results. Photo Credit: Gravity Pull Systems

Gravity Pull System’s Schedule Optimizer is an additive manufacturing (AM) software that is said to enable 30% cost optimization in production processes. The software is well suite for print shops and high-volume production centers that face job planning challenges to achieve efficient processes with the most cost-effective parameters for production jobs.

The configurable Synoptik Production Scheduling Optimizer analyzes AI-based relevant production data (such as component geometry, volume, customer order parameters and material consumption) and identifies optimal economic results. If parameters change during ongoing production, the total operating costs are dynamically recalculated and optimization suggestions are generated that recommend the best possible use of resources, and work/logistics processes, including postprocessing.

The optimization is enabled by simulating a wide variety of scenarios to ensure resource-saving and sustainable production. Expected and unexpected incidents during the course of production are simulated, and the effects of changes in the schedule are examined. Compared to conventional calculation methods, the Schedule Optimizer is said to achieve an optimization and cost potential of around 30% and higher, depending on individual business case requirements.

The software can be integrated into more than 50 existing programs such as SAP via an API interface or can be used in conjunction with Synoptik’s own MES/Trace &Tracking tool. Synoptik is available as an on-premises or cloud solution.

As a qualification and collaboration platform, the company says Synoptik offers the basis for building an ecosystem that integrates all process partners, including manufacturers, suppliers and customers. The parties involved work together on the same level of knowledge and information throughout the entire process life cycle in AM. The product design is secured via an integrated blockchain application.

The Synoptik software suite is an intelligent software offering a solution portfolio for holistic process optimization in additive and other manufacturing modalities. The three core functions for production processes include Planning/Detailed Scheduling (Schedule Optimizer for efficient cost management); Production Tracking/Tracing (MES); and Qualification And Collaboration Platform (ecosystem). From incoming orders to planning and production with postprocessing included, the entire AM production chain is mapped on one platform. Due to the modular structure, Schedule Optimizer and MES can also be used independently of each other.