The concept of sequencing originated from the just-in-time initiatives introduced by the automotive manufacturers and their suppliers in the early 1990’ which today has become a necessary requirement with accelerated needs.  Very soon OEM / Tier companies would face sequencing as absolute requirements to compete with marketplace and to fight increased cost of quality. (COQ). The Bottom Line is that the suppliers need to increase investments in sequencing, lean and part traceability to meet pending sequencing requirements .Depending on the manufacturer, the sequencing requirement is referred to by many different names and acronyms, such as ILVS (In-Line Vehicle Sequencing), SPD (Sequenced Parts Delivery) and Just-In-Sequence.

The essence of automotive sequencing is for suppliers to deliver parts to the manufacturers just in time, and also in the proper build sequence, as requested by the customers. Generally, sequencing maximizes manufacturer’s floor space, decreases the time a consumer waits for their new vehicle, and reduces the inventory levels being carried by manufacturer and supplier. Sequencing covers a number of components including doors, quarter panels, overhead systems, seats, wheels, glass, bumpers, exhaust systems, axles, and even engines. Sequencing optimizes production efficiency while also reducing waste and parts storage space.

CSQR sequence process is state-of-the-art. Through carefully managed reference tables, parts are assigned to racks, sequence racks are attached to locations and locations are assigned printers. Each rack within the sequence facility has unique characteristics that are also defined; beyond the part-type they include slot count, assigned pick reports and plant locations.

CSQR sequence system is designed to generate the correct part to the correct rack in the correct order 100% of the time. Our system is built on a Server platform using component based architecture coupled with wireless communications to the production floor. This enables us to process the sequence in an error-free environment that is reliable and responsive to the needs of our clients.

Sequence Communication

Sequence notification from the plant to CSQR can be made on virtually any communication link from dial-up to ANX and our system can handle an EDI Sequence Notice, a FLEX or virtually any other type of broadcast messaging.

Receipt of Data

Upon receipt of the broadcast, our system insures your sequence request is in sequential order. We maintain records of the last sequence and the expected next sequence to insure that process. In the event that a sequence is missed due to communication interruption from the source, an alarm is generated for controlled plan sequence for immediate resolution of the issue.

Sequence processing

After broadcast reception, sequence order is verified and the parts extracted from the broadcast are assigned to a rack. When the rack is completed, a pick report, as well as optional rack and/or part labels, are generated to the pick location on the floor. The parts are then effectively sequenced into the rack.

Verification Process

Verification of the correct part to the correct slot in the correct rack is completed both visually and electronically. CSQR maintains a unique pick report designed to mirror the rack. For example, if the rack is designed for 16 parts, 4 slots across, 4 slots down, the pick report will mirror that image. We have the ability to insert part descriptions, even pictures to better enable the part sequencers to sequence correctly.

Our electronic verification process is also unsurpassed. CSQR personnel using wireless scanners, (actually mini-computers) scan the sequence rack bar code, and the part numbers in the order they were loaded are returned to the scanner. A successful verification occurs when all parts are scanned in the proper order of the sequence rack thereby insuring 100% compliance.

Inventory Processing

CSQR sequence system fully supports the demand for active inventory. Upon delivery of the freight, either a 2D or standard bar code attached to the freight is scanned, updating part quantities by supplier and serial number. Part quantities are relieved in the shipping process when the rack bar code is scanned to the outbound conveyance.

Options

CSQR sequence system also has modules that can handle part delays, a kit-making module, and a sub-assembly broadcast where multiple parts are assembled from a single broadcasted part.

Reporting