// ROBOTICS AND SMART FACTORIES TERM
Process Flow
Process flow describes the sequence of steps and decisions involved in a process, showing how work moves from start to finish. It's often visualized with flowcharts.
TECHNICAL DEFINITION
Process Flow refers to the logical and chronological sequence of activities, tasks, and decisions that constitute a process, illustrating the movement of materials, information, or work units from initiation to completion, often visualized through process flowcharts or value stream maps.
BACKGROUND
Lean manufacturing is a management system built on three principles: produce only what is needed, when it is needed; correct abnormalities as soon as they occur; and empower workers to improve the process themselves.
READ MORE ON WIKIPEDIASYNONYMS & ALIASES
- Workflow
- Process sequence
- Flowchart
- Value stream
USAGE NOTE
Understanding the process flow is critical for identifying bottlenecks and areas for improvement.
DEVELOPERS
Organizations developing technology related to Process Flow.
Develops the Xcelerator portfolio, including Opcenter MES and Tecnomatix Process Simulate, which allows manufacturers to create a digital twin of their entire production process. This enables the simulation, validation, and optimization of process flows before physical implementation.
A market leader in process mining and execution management. Their software analyzes data from enterprise systems (like ERP and MES) to discover, visualize, and improve actual business and production process flows, identifying bottlenecks and inefficiencies in real-time.
Provides the 3DEXPERIENCE platform, with applications like DELMIA for digital manufacturing. It enables companies to virtually define, plan, create, monitor, and control production systems and process flows, from initial design to final assembly.
Offers the FactoryTalk InnovationSuite, which includes MES applications and analytics. The suite provides tools for real-time management of production orders, resource allocation, and workflow control on the factory floor, directly managing and optimizing the process flow.
Develops enterprise software, including SAP Digital Manufacturing Cloud, which connects top-floor business planning with shop-floor operations. It provides end-to-end visibility and control over manufacturing processes, ensuring a seamless flow of information and materials.
Provides a suite of industrial software for engineering and operations. Their Manufacturing Execution System (MES) and PI System help digitalize and standardize workflows, track production, and analyze process data to improve operational efficiency and flow.
A leading vendor in Robotic Process Automation (RPA). In manufacturing, UiPath's platform automates repetitive digital tasks within the process flow, such as order entry, inventory tracking, and bill of materials management, streamlining information and decision flows.
A global automation corporation that provides intelligent robotics and plant engineering solutions. Their software, such as KUKA.Sim, allows for the simulation and optimization of robotic cells, which are integral parts of a modern, automated manufacturing process flow.