HSi’s software application HSplan represents a technology-oriented production
planning system capable of calculating target times with unparalleled speed and
accuracy. This unsurpassed performance can be attributed to the HSi technology
base® and its pre-configured process modules. Developed for such tasks as
turning, milling and drilling, these modules contain rules and look-up tables
for the exact calculation of the target times. The data exchange between the
HSplan and an ERP/PPS system is handled by a variety of options such as the
set-up of an individual bidirectional interface, a full integration option or
embedding into an HSi workflow.

If HSplan is integrated into SAP, the module HSplan/IS SAP supplements the SAP
production planning component with a function for target time calculation. The
necessary calculations are made on the process levels below the level of the
workflows. The operation stage editor is accessed in the production plan via the
button bar, while a separate input mask is used for entering parameters. All it
takes to complete the calculation is the input of only a few parameters along
with a single mouse click on one of the process modules available in the menu.
Once this module has been selected, the calculation is performed on the HSi
server within the HSi technology base®. The communication between SAP and HSi
server is handled by a Web service. The planning employee remains in the
familiar system interface during the entire production planning and target time
calculation process.

For documenting purposes, all calculated times, generated texts and interim and
end results of the calculation are available in the SAP system. This allows for
quick and exact similarity planning by means of the repeat planning function. In
addition, the calculations can be copied from existing production plans and
updated automatically. This function also eliminates the need for redundant data
storage. All workflows for which target times have been calculated using HSplan
are identified by a specific time label. If a final calculation reveals
deviations from the production times, the documented cutting and basic time data
makes it possible to determine the cause of the variance.

Production planning has been integrated into the SAP PP (Production Planning)
and linked to the SAP PM (Plant Maintenance) module for a number of years now.
The PM module comprises the functions of inspection, maintenance and repairs.
Especially during the time leading up to the repairs do the planning results
produced by HSplan for the pre-calculation and creation of production plans make
a major contribution.

HSi recently completed the inclusion of the SAP PI (Process Integration) module
in the context of the overall SAP integration solution. The PI module extends
the logging capabilities during an exchange of data between SAP and external
systems. This PI technology accommodates the increased safety requirements that
are prevalent primarily at large corporations.

With HSplan/ES – Embedded HSplan Workflow – HSi is offering yet another solution
for ERP/PPS systems. This solution allows the user to open the standard HSi
operation stage editor from within the workflow in the ERP/PPS system. Contrary
to the HSplan/IS solution, this approach does not involve a replication of HSi
function in the ERP system. Since this solution merely applies the HSplan
standard, there is no need for any additional development work. All that is
required is to configure a one-time adaptation of the data transfer for each ERP
system. This level of convenience makes it ideal for ERP solutions used in
medium-size companies. The system allows for the creation of any number of
operation stages for the purpose of time calculation. One calculation module is
called up for every operation stage and used to calculate the production, idle
and set-up times as well as to generate texts. This procedure makes it possible
to precisely calculate the times required for the individual work steps and to
document these steps in a transparent way. When the user closes the embedded
workflow or HSplan/ES, the system will tally and output the set-up and piece
times. The system will, furthermore, save all entries in the ERP workflow that
were made in the course of the workflow. When the workflow is edited, the saved
data is unpacked and restored. This approach offers a quick way to perform
similarity planning by modifying individual parameters.

HSi solutions set themselves apart by a shallow learning curve, superior ease of
use and an intuitive Web-based interface. Since they can always be adapted to
the latest changes and developments, the software modules provide for more
planning reliability and investment security. They run on all common operating
systems. Ready-to-use connections and implementations already exist for SAP,
BAAN, eEVOLUTION, FEPA, GODYO P4, IFOS, INFOR, INFORMING, NAVISION, PSIPENTA,
WINCARAT and others.