BMW first to adopt data matrix for engine “track and trace”

Abstract

Purpose

Describes how BMW is implementing data matrix technology to trace and track major engine components.

Design/methodology/approach

Describes the major production line hardware components of a new system that is being installed at the company's Hams Hall, UK engine plant that will be used in conjunction with Tecnomatix's XFactory intelligent software to provide a comprehensive database both for the purposes of production control as well as for use in service.

Findings

The basic hardware elements of the data matrix system have already been proven out at Hams Hall using RVSI's HawkEye 1510 cutting‐edge cameras and data matrix marking machines supplied by Technifor Ltd of Leamington Spa. Technifor, also supplied the 2D data matrix readers and verifiers from RVSI in Nashua, New Hampshire, USA. The XFactory software was installed in the last month of 2004.

Research limitations/implications

Engineers at BMW plan to expand the technology to enable them to use it for selective machining of cylinder heads for various types of engine. Also, as component suppliers to BMW also adopt the technology, data matrix tracking will be used for a large variety of engine components for use in assembly. It also has implications during CMM inspection to quickly identify which machining operations might be faulty.

Practical implications

Data matrix technology offers a low‐cost approach to the tracking and tracing of complex major engine components during both machining and assembly.

Originality/value

BMW claims it is the first automotive engine supplier in the UK to use data matrix technology to track and trace components.

Citation

Mortimer, J. (2005), "BMW first to adopt data matrix for engine “track and trace”", Assembly Automation, Vol. 25 No. 1, pp. 15-18. https://doi.org/10.1108/01445150510578950