Paperless shop floor control software provides continuous overview

Paperless control of work scheduling in the window frame industry is becoming more and more prevalent. Everything that used to take place on paper is increasingly being digitized. JoSS, the software program of the Belgian Techwin BV - acquired by Matrix Group in 2023 - goes very far in this regard. "With this extended module, for example, it is also possible to assign priorities and track defects," says lead consultant Ben Pottiez of Techwin BV.

On October 2, 2023, the acquisition of Techwin BV - a leading supplier of software for the window and door industry - by Matrix Group became effective. Since then, the two companies have been jointly strengthening their position in the Dutch and Belgian markets. "Where Matrix has traditionally been especially strong in wood and PVC, we have now added our knowledge of aluminum," says Ben. "By joining forces, the software solutions for the frame industry can be developed even further. In addition to our software for calculation, work preparation, machine control and customer relationship management, we also offer JoSS, a program for paperless control and follow-up of the work planning. Instead of all papers being printed out in advance and having to go from one operator to another, they now receive digital instructions on screens."

Buffers

Ben emphasizes that JoSS goes far beyond simply providing a paperless workplace, however. "Because this software program also brings the complete route of the flow of goods throughout the workshop into view. This gives you a continuous overview of what is where and who is working on what within the production process. In addition, JoSS is suitable for controlling buffers and the necessary work instructions and drawings on screens at the assembly tables. And the program is constantly being further developed. For example, we are currently developing a link from JoSS to a new profile warehouse in which all cut profiles are collected. As soon as all the profiles for a frame are ready, they can be called up in the system."

Follow up defects

With this extended module, it is also possible to assign priorities and track defects, such as, for example, a problem with a machine or a scratch on a profile, Ben continues. "Or suppose a door needs to be delivered, but the handle is missing. By reporting back to the office, a new handle can then be ordered immediately."

Glass factory

Thanks to the optimal overview that JoSS offers at any time, the entire control of the shop floor becomes very transparent, so to speak. In this context, Techwin also uses the term "the glass factory. Ben: "Because you can see at all times where what is located and what is happening. Besides the complete mapping of the goods flow, JoSS can also be expanded quickly and flexibly with software modules that are not included as standard. In this way, the customer can choose the software modules he needs bit by bit and thus grow into our concept, so to speak."