MMS Version 8, the newest release of Fastems’ Manufacturing Management Software (MMS), boosts CNC automation intelligence by introducing MMS Insights view, giving practical ideas and suggestions on how to improve CNC production. Fastems also developed the user experience and added functionalities supporting an economical use of modular fixtures, allowing higher production mix with smaller work holding investment. Version 8 will be available for new and as an upgrade to existing Fastems automation systems during the spring of 2022.

The MMS Insights module provides CNC companies with numerous highlights and suggestions on how to improve their production processes based on data gathered from the automation system, including all the integrated machinery and data systems. MMS overviews the whole production and comes up with suggestions such as adding or removing certain tools or fixtures based on usage rates or updating NC-program runtimes for more precise order scheduling. It builds upon the functionality of the earlier MMS versions offering users a full suite of options for automated production planning, including production resource preparation and indication of missing resources such as cutting tools, raw materials, NC programs, or workholding. This enables operators to execute the planned production in a proactive manner, leading to higher machine utilization, shorter lead times and less work-in-process.

For manufacturers using the simple pallet automation systems like Flexible Pallet Container (FPC) or Flexible Pallet Tower (FPT), Fastems introduced a single-screen user interface with drag-and-drop pallet ordering, and an MMS EasyRoute function allowing operators to bring entirely new workpieces into production in under a minute. For manufacturers that don’t produce purely based on customer orders, there is an Order Generator that automatically creates production orders based on rules defined by the user. For instance, the system can automatically maintain a certain stock level or produce a recurring batch at regular intervals.

For manufacturers producing high mix and therefore needing a lot of fixtures, Fastems built an optional Fixture Resource Management module allowing the use of modular fixtures that enable higher production mix with fewer pallets, generating cost savings on fixture investment, space savings on pallet storage, and time savings with less fixture building work.