The Problem:
A leading CNC machine control systems provider has instructed Knaresborough based GSPK Design Ltd to assist in the manufacture of their CNC machines.
After manufacturing their unit, it became apparent that improvements could be made on the system design to improve yields for manufacture. GSPK Design Ltd advised the company of its findings and embarked on a re-design to help not only save the company money, but also help combat potential malfunctions.
The existing system design used 386 analogue drivers, a power board, display board and a CPU board. These components simply did not comply with the exacting capabilities and standards required by the end user.
The Solution:
GSPK Design was able to provide a full re-design of this product using the latest technology. This included combining a 6 layer multilayer board, FPGA digital chip and IMS power board (insulated metal back substrate). In conjunction with the new base unit, GSPK Design developed a remote control hand-held unit for user friendliness which now allows the operator to effectively and efficiently set up their machinery.
The Result:
The GSPK Design team, using the guidelines provided, endeavoured to re-design, improve upon and exceed every aspect of the brief by providing:
- Faster and smoother operation
- Increased running flexibility
- Improved PC compatibility
- Fully RF remote controlled
- Reduced manufacturing costs
The system is now fully manufactured by GSPK Design and sales for the company have steadily increased. GSPK Design’s value engineering solution has had significant impact on manufacturing effectiveness including:
- Manufacturing times reduced by 50%
- CPU first time pass rate is now greater than 99.9%, having previously been 80%
- The returns rate was over 25%, this has now dropped to less than 1%