JSE-listed CS Holdings` mining and manufacturing division CS Systems Integration, has developed "CSmart", an online Mine Management Information System (MMIS) that manages the status of a mine`s production information and equipment.
"A mine`s management, production and maintenance personnel typically have to rely on data recorded on spreadsheets to determine the production and equipment status of the mine," explains CS Systems Integration project manager Jacques van der Merwe. "The process usually involves a manual system across different disciplines on the mine. Such a system not only prevents the delivery of real-time information, but a strong possibility also exists for errors to creep in during the data capturing process."
The MMIS online system has been specifically designed to address these issues and, says Van der Merwe, delivers numerous benefits.
"With the control room as the principal end-user, the system provides a single point for data co-ordination. Reports and information are automatically distributed across the mine`s intranet network, directly to the people who need it, without the need for any additional software or maintenance, on their desktops."
Interfacing is done directly with the mine`s control rooms to collect all the real-time data from the plant`s SCADA, PLC and vehicle tracking systems.
"Mine management is able to view a shift`s log status at any given time," Van der Merwe continues. "They are shown summarised data on their desktops and can drill down to specifics very easily, literally at the click of a button. The log status is reported against the mine plan and automatically flags issues where production targets are not being met. Additionally, analysis of lost production is available from the stop reason monitoring feature which shows the causes of the equipment failure that results in production outages."
The MMIS also enhances the management of capacity utilisation and resource allocations. "The system allows for production targets to be set on a shift-by-shift basis as per the mine plan," Van der Merwe explains. "The actual production figures are captured, along with machine breakdowns and delays. The reporting then shows machine availability and utilisation efficiencies. This is all recorded by shaft, section and device on a shift-by-shift basis.
"All these features give management visibility into their operations on a real-time basis. Additionally, the information is delivered in the format they want it, when they want it, and at their convenience. Owing to the availability of real-time and accurate production information, management is able to manage the mine`s production proactively."
The system has been designed using freely available development tools with data storage on Microsoft`s SQL7 database.
"The conceptual designs were done with a view to ensuring that the product was `open` in order to facilitate integration to other systems that may be on the mine. Specific attention was given to the potential for integration to ERP systems for bi-directional data transfer," Van der Merwe concludes.
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CS Systems Integration, a division of JSE-listed CS Holdings, has four core business streams, providing applications requirements to achieve a truly integrated IT Solution architecture. These are Strategy Solutions, Enterprise Management Systems, Production and Manufacturing Systems and Business Intelligence.
CS Systems Integration focuses on integrated applications and streamlined offerings to provide a complete solution across the full spectrum of the business and its supply chain.
This division enables a customer to link its IT strategy to its business strategy. CS Systems Integration can manage the synthesis and connectivity from top floor to shop floor, front office to back office systems in business, across the supply chain spectrum, inclusive of human resource, logistical, operational, and financial requirements. It will also optimise and integrate its clients` business systems and assist in the drive towards e-business.
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