Applicability Evaluation of Mobile Devices for Use within Manufacturing Environments

The emergence of mobile devices has opened new domains for their use within manufacturing environments as tools that could be used within different manufacturing processes. Evolving technology has enabled the development of devices such as ultra mobile personal computers (UMPCs) that provide the function of a computer in a compact, mobile configuration and augmented reality (wearable mobile devices) in a production environment where hands-free operation is essential. This paper explores BMW's investigation of incorporating mobile devices within the manufacturing environment to view potential benefits that could be achieved. Manufacturing enterprises are characterized by many diverse and critical processes. Effective communication mechanism must be available to communicate critical information such as breakdowns and schedule changes to the relevant personnel (1). It is realized that the potential for mobile devices in manufacturing process has not been fully exploited. With use of mobile broadband communication, mobile devices can be used for audio and visual communication and provide the ability to transfer large data volumes. Overall, the use of mobile devices allows for more effective communication and data sharing/recording. BMW explores the use of mobile devices use within two manufacturing processes: assembly training and pruefcubing. Through an internal study conducted, it is realized that the use of mobile devices demonstrates improvements within the manufacturing process in terms of time efficiency, quality, and communication capabilities.