At a Glance

Corrugator Scheduling

Perfect Scheduling – Automatic or Interactive

PC-Topp offers two ways of scheduling: Automatic Optimisation and Interactive Planning. In both modes, PC-Topp knows the tricks of the trade: It can work for one, two or three cut-off knives (even the dreaded Simon Triple Split knife), it knows "pinching", when to upgrade (and when not), it knows about scoring limitations, special scores, tear tapes, and it knows which order in a setup should go to the top or bottom stacker, which one on the operator or drive side. The Corrugator Scheduling page gives an overview of the quantities to schedule in each grade (separate by flute type) for the next two or three weeks in a TGV-like manner.

Days with sheets orders only (no orders for conversion) are highlighted by a separate color. One mouse click starts Optimisation or Interactive Planning with the right orders to schedule already highlighted: A slider control allows the planner to pre-select how many days ahead he wants to go, and how far into the future the system can go looking for optional orders.

Additional indicators show the scope of Program Memory, and remind the planner for which grades there already are schedules waiting to be produced.

Cost Factor Control

Cost Factors control the planning process in both Automatic Optimisation and Interactive Planning. PC-Topp doesn't just do trim optimisation, but optimizes corrugator productivity at the same time. Upgrade costs are reduced, roll size changes are eliminated, the average length of a run increases. Management can influence the decisions taken in Planning by varying those cost factors, in order to adapt to changes in the economic situation or the characteristics of new equipment.

Full integration with conversion machine planning

The integration with conversion machine planning helps to choose the right orders that are required in conversion, but has no negative influence whatsoever on the resulting corrugator schedules: The entire planning process is targeted on optimum production on the corrugator.

Of course, there will always be conflicts between the corrugator schedules and conversion. PC-Topp identifies and reports them, and helps the planner to eliminate them. This fine-tuning between the corrugator and conversion machine schedules is the final step of the planning process.

And the full power of PC-Topp, the integrated planning system, is demonstrated when a major breakdown on the corrugator forces a complete rescheduling of the production program.

Top of Page At a Glance
  • Automatic Optimisation & Interactive Planning
    Help the planner compile optimum schedules
  • Optimum Results Controlled by Cost Factors
    Improved productivity, trim, production cost
  • Full Integration with Conversion Machine Planning
    • "Smart" order selection reduces work-in-progress
    • Flexible reaction to changes in the production process