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Experimental cost reduction in Modern Manufacturing Industries through Software based Mechatronics System: An overview

Ramamoorthy.C, Dr. V. Selladurai and Dr. Rajesh Ranganathan

Abstract — Nowadays, the changing demand patters by the customers are increasing the pressure on the manufacturers. In this situation, manufacturers to sustain in the market are forced to do the activities like (i) Increase the selling price of their product and (ii) Reduce their internal costs of their product. In this scenario, it is not possible to increase the selling price of the products. The only way is to reduce their internal costs and improve the quality of the products to survive in their field. This paper suggests a methodology to develop and implement software based mechatronics systems in their factory premises for taking necessary steps to reduce the experimental cost, internal cost and improve the efficiency of the organization. The software based mechatronics approach is used to predict and analyze the relevant data pertaining to the selected problems. The usefulness of this approach is not only applicable for pump manufacturing industries but also various industrial segments, which would enable to cater the current and future customer demanding needs.

Index Terms — Minimum Economic crisis, software based mechatronics system, experimental cost reduction, Internal cost reduction, efficiency improvement, economic growth.

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1 INTRODUCTION

S global competition continues to intensify across industries, companies are actively pursuing strate- gies that will enable them to compete more effective-
ly and improve profitability. In modern manufacturing
industries, software based mechatronics system are wide-
ly used to operate, monitor and control of various
processes. Modern electro mechanical system consists of
sophisticated software and hardware components to
achieve high accurate, precision and reliable manufactur-
ing processes.
According to Danial (1998) [1], traditional computer programming involves setting down a list of tasks for the computer to execute in the given sequential order. Teru- tomo (2001) [2] stated that in the early 1980s, the mecha- tronics based computer aided flexible manufacturing sys- tems were introduced in order to improve the efficiency of the organizations. Claimed by Anders (2004) [3], the complexity of the mechatronics system emphasizes the need for a virtual machine concept for dealing with this trade-off during product development. Godfrey (2005) [4] expressed that mechatronics responds to industry’s increasing demand for engineers who are able to work

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RAMAMOORTHY.C, Research Scholar, Department of Mechanical En- gineering, Coimbatore Institute of Technology, Coimbatore – 641 014, Ta- milnadu, India, E-mail: ramsun.turbo@gmail.com

Dr.V.SELLADURAI, Principal, Coimbatore Institute of Technology, Coimbatore – 641 014, Tamilnadu, India, E-mail: selladurai.v@gmail.com

Dr. RAJESH RANGANATHAN, Associate Professor, Department of

Mechanical Engineering, Coimbatore Institute of Technology, Coimbatore –

641 014, Tamilnadu, India, E-mail: drrajeshranganadhan@gmail.com

across the discipline boundaries of electronic, control and mechanical engineering to identify and use the proper combination of technologies for optimum solutions to today’s increasingly challenging engineering problems.
As per the report given by Amuthakkannan (2007) [5], in high precision manufacturing industries, software based systems are widely used to obtain precision, accu- rate and reliable data. Based on the report given by Mark, et al., (2008) [6], mechatronics involved the fusion of mechanical technology with electrical and electronics, computer science, material technologies etc. As described by Sophie (2009) [7] mechatronics is the industry’s prin- cipal route to meeting the ever increasing demand for more performance at lower cost and in a smaller foot- print. Agoria (2010) [8] studies show that a mechatronics design approaches is a key to all research avenues in or- der to drastically improve their overall performance (adaptability, productivity, quality, reliability and life- cycle costs (i.e. reduced energy consumption, reduced waste).

2 PROBLEM STATEMENT

Modern manufacturers are under intense, unrelenting pressure to find new ways to cut costs, improve quality, and boost customer satisfaction. These parameters are usually achieved through developing creative and inno- vative ideas. The software based mechatronics system is a relevant approach which provides lots of newer, creative and innovative ideas to develop virtual machinery for the prediction and analyzes of relevant data in order to meet experimental cost reduction and performance targets. Realizing the potential for software based mechatronics

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system in the industrial environment, this paper is fo- cused to cater future projected industrial needs. The de- velopments of virtual machinery using software based mechatronics system for cater future demand and its pa- rameters are taken as research problem and solution me- thodologies are proposed.

3 LITERATURE REVIEW

According to Ritchie and Lewis (2003) [9], the wider lite- rature about the role of existing theory, practice and re- search will shape future research. Kothari (2004) [10] ex- pressed that the researcher should undertake extensive literature survey connected with the problem. Russell (2006) [11] stated that the contemporary practice of pos- ing research is a wider literature is consistent with more recent articulations of grounded theory methodology and of the closely related case study methodology. The litera- ture review assesses the past and current status of re- search work in the area of mechatronics system and soft- ware based mechatronics approach. The work done by the earlier researchers in these areas are classified in the following aspects:

3.1 Mechatronics System

Dobrivoje (1999) [12] expressed that in the past several decades, the rapid development of electronics industry and ever increasing applications of computers and the automation of various industries, demand for mechatron- ics applications have increased exponentially. As stated by MBT (2000) [13], the use of mechatronics systems views and validates electro-mechanical processes for the most efficient production operation possible. Christopher (2004) [14] outlined that the stages of a product’s life in- clude engineering, production and overall testing helps validate appropriate designs, verify appropriate produc- tion, and thus reduce wastes. Godfrey (2005) [4] outlined that Mechatronics responds to industry’s increasing de- mand for engineers who are able to work across the dis- cipline boundaries of electronic, control and mechanical engineering to identify and use the proper combination of technologies for optimum solutions to today’s increasing- ly challenging engineering problems.
As per the report given by Eiji and Tatsuo (2007) [15], the manual operation process is a waste of time, waste in transportation, waste of movement, overburden etc. for each task. Ernest and Stanislav (2008) [16] indicated that the integrated structures, mechatronics and robotics, combine computers and their programs into mechanisms are used to monitor them by sensors (transducers). MBT (2009) [17] suggested that making analysis more integral to design; blending of mechanical, electrical, and electron- ic design is called mechatronics. As per the report given by SPLMS (2010) [18], mechatronics system views and validates electro-mechanical processes for the most effi- cient production operation possible. Based on the litera- tures it is clear that software programming is essential to
achieve the desired innovative system.

3.2 Software based Mechatronics System Programmers develop software applications every day in order to increase efficiency and productivity in various

situations. Johnson (1998) [19] stated that the LabVIEW
software has advanced the state of software development
in graphical programming, user interface design, and
development environment. NIC (2003) [20] reported that
LabVIEW is a graphical programming language that uses
icons instead of lines of text to create applications. As
described by Christopher (2004) [14], the control software
is to be designed to allow operators with little or no com-
puter experience to monitor and control the system.
Eiji and Tatsuo (2007) [15] expressed that well designed software is an excellent computational tool to simulate dynamic mechatronics systems. Instead of measuring a process variable directly with one physical sensor, mea- surements form several sensors and other knowledge of the process are incorporated using software to obtain an even more accurate measurement. Bitter (2007) [21] point of view, the ability of the software to provide abstraction is also significant because it improves code readability. CNA (2008) [22] studies shows that the control electronics are designed and manufactured with tailored software adaptations to further improve operation in the machines or even to integrate the machine functions.
As indicated by NIC (2009) [23], LabVIEW is a powerful development environment for signal acquisition, mea- surement analysis, and data presentation, giving you the flexibility of a programming language without the com- plexity of traditional development tools. NIC (2010) [24] outlined that, with LabVIEW software, it can be quickly create user interfaces that give you interactive control of your software system. Claimed by Pedro and Fernando (2010) [25], LabVIEW is a graphical control, test, and mea- surement environment development package. It is one of the most important software platforms for developing engineering applications and could be connected with different hardware systems, as well as running standa- lone programs for simulating the controller’s perfor- mance. Luis (2011) [26] pointed out that the intelligent and autonomous software programs are capable of inte- racting with other software components within a given application, and sharing a common goal.

4 BACKGROUND OF THE PAPER

At the starts of the paper, the analyses of various concepts which are essential are to be studied. Peter (1999) [27] expressed that the background concepts provides the re- search and researcher to make sense of the ‘data’ and the study to proceed in a systematic way. As described by Brian (2003) [28], the different backgrounds for the selec- tive area are reducing the gap between the theoretical studies and practical analysis. In this paper the back-

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grounds of mechatronics system and software based me- chatronics approach were presented.

4.1 Background of mechatronics system

The new role of mechatronics in the 21st century is the one of the main technology to support people directly by intelligent machines and systems with sensor, informa- tion technology, network, and human sciences. IAG (2006) [29] reported that the Iskra Avtoelektrika Group increased their sales volume by 23 % in comparison with the year before mainly as a result of the mechatronics ap- plications. The share of new products sales is by 5 per- centage points higher than in the previous year and represents 30 % of the total sales. As suggested by John (2007) [30], about 15% of all investments in the process industry are currently allocated to mechatronics devices. There is an important tendency of some growing sectors, specifically the equipment industry, which investment has grown at a rate of 11.2% in 2005 and 31% in 2006. Gerard (2008) [31] expressed that an increase in automa- tion, to detect early failure diagnostics of the machines, the mechatronics share of the production costs of ma- chines is gradually increasing to about 10% to 20%.

4.2 Background of software based mechatronics system

Since the dawn of computing in the 1940s, the applica- tions and uses of computers have grown at a staggering rate. According to ACM (2004) [32], software plays a cen- tral role in almost all aspects of daily life: in government, industries, banking and finance, education, transporta- tion, entertainment, medicine, agriculture, law etc. As suggested by Godfrey (2005) [4], mechatronics is defined as the synergistic combination of precision mechanical, electronic, control, and systems engineering, in the design of products and manufacturing processes. Agoria (2006) [8] stated that most modern engineering products already make use of the close interaction between classical me- chanics, electronics, control engineering and software that is known as mechatronics.
John (2007) [30] expressed that about 15% of all invest- ments in e.g. the process industry are currently allocated to mechatronics devices. Application of mechatronics can provide a large competitive advantage. Production costs can be reduced by reducing waste costs but also labour costs. There is an important tendency of some growing sectors, specifically the equipment industry, which in- vestment has grown at a rate of 11.2% in 2005 and 31% in
2006. Mark (2008) [6], et al., insisted that computer inno- vations increased from 26% to 74% between the years
1963 to 2008 in UK firms.

5 RESEARCH APPROACH


As stated by Kothari (2004) [10], research approach is a way to systematically solve the research problem. It may be understood as a science of studying how research is done scientifically. The various steps that are generally adopted by a researcher in studying his research problem along with the logic behind them are to be taken. The solution given in this paper has been carried out by using the research approach as shown in Figure 1.

Problem definition

Literature review

Study the required parameters Construct software programs Experimental setup

Data collection

Data analysis Implementation & Validation Solution / Conclusion

Fig.1. Research approach

As per the field work approach, the relevant conceptual literatures concerning the concepts, theories, and empiri- cal case studies were studied. After the conceptual stage, arrangements should be made for the selection of relevant manufacturing industry to carry out the case studies. The desired parameters of software based mechatronics sys- tem were analyzed before conducting the programme. The relevant data pertaining to the selected problems were predicted and analyzed though software based me- chatronics system. The optimal solution was tested through proper validations before implementing in regu- lar production.

6 CASE STUDY

Bill and John (2001) [32] expressed that case study leads to obtain very novel idea and no longer limited to the particular individual. Kothari (2004) [10] outlined that a case-study is an in-depth approach to reach the basic rela- tionship between the theoretical and practical aspects.

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6.1 Formation of team and time frame

As reported by WoS (2009) [34], the teams or work forces that can meet deadlines and solve the selected problems by planning and streamlining activities. A team compris- ing of skilled personnel from each department had been formed for planning, monitoring, evaluating and direct- ing. This team had been discussed among the members and with the top management; the time frame for con- ducting integrative programme had been formulated.

6.2 Product selection

Understanding the importance of product selection, the team has to gone through the customer care records, cus- tomer complaints book, service engineers’ log book and all. Marco (2009) [35] studies shows that during the prod- uct selection the literatures for product life cycle, provid- ing knowledge based environment to support value crea- tion to the customers in term of creation, innovation, lead time reduction, quality improvement, performance im- provements were considered. A sample product called Shallowell jet pump is shown in figure 2.
the sub-sampling receiver are used to acquire the desired signal. Arun (2006) [40] indicated that the Data Acquisi- tion (DAQ) system has been interfaced to computer through parallel port for transferring the acquired data to the computer. As described by Bitter (2007) [21], taking data from a data acquisition card can now graph the out- puts on a digital graph. Pedro and Fernando (2010) [25] explained that the data acquisition system plays a key role in the control system design. A sample DAQ (PCI-

6034E) card is shown in Figure 3.

Fig.3. Data Acquisition Card

Fig.2. Product (Shallowell jet pump)

6.3 Apparatus selection

The selection of apparatus for manipulating the input signals and output signals are one of the important phas- es for experimentation. According to Robert (2008) [37], the accuracy of apparatus describes the amount of uncer- tainty when considering quantization error, unavoidable system noise, and hardware imperfections. Anders (2004) [3] stated that a measuring instrument was designed which had an accuracy of a millionth of an inch, increas- ing the accuracy of the machines dramatically. Claimed by BEC (2006) [38], high precise, accurate and reliable measuring apparatus will improve the confident level of the employers, employees and customers.

6.4 Data acquisition card

Christopher (2004) [14] expressed that choosing the right combination hardware and software can save hours of development time and strongly influence the perfor- mance of built application. As stated by Cory (2005) [39], data acquisition card is in some sense a hybrid device in that aspects of both the conventional digital receiver and

6.5 LabVIEW Software

The National Instruments’ LabVIEW Software is a graph- ical development environment which provides advanced functionality and performance that engineer and scien- tists can use to develop sophisticated applications. John- son (1998) [19] suggested that LabVIEW is a new kind of graphical programming language that has brought the power of the computer to the scientists and engineers in a powerful new metaphor that is natural to the user. As per the report given by Thomas (2003) [41], an expe- rienced LabVIEW user can program the application easily with this information. Gary and Richard (2006) [42] out- lined that LabVIEW brings the ease of graphical pro- gramming to the arcane world of real-time system pro- gramming. Jeffrey and Jim (2006) [43] point of view, LabVIEW create programs using a graphical notation (connecting functional nodes via wires through which data flows); in this regard, it differs from traditional pro- gramming languages like C, C++, or Java, in which pro- gram with text. Sumathi and Surekha (2007) [44] re- ported that LabVIEW introduced graphical user interfac- es and visual programming into computerized instru- mentation, joining simplicity of a user interface operation with increased capabilities of computers. NIC (2010) [24] reports show that LabVIEW is a highly productive graph- ical programming language for building data acquisition and instrumentation systems.

6.6 Software development

Johnson (1998) [19] explained that the increase in produc- tivity comes from the interactive approach to software

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development. As expressed by Christopher (2004) [14] software approach is used for hardware and other capa- bilities, which also minimizes the integration time and effort for future developments. VMWare (2006) [45] re- ports shows that software development teams to more efficiently utilize software development and test lab as- sets, accelerate software development cycles, and increase the quality of delivered software systems. Sumathi and Surekha (2007) [44] suggested that instrumentation soft- ware enabled the creation of a simulated physical instru- ment, having the capability to control physical sensing components. Pedro and Fernando (2010) [25] outlined that software platforms for developing engineering appli- cations and could be connected with different hardware systems, as well as running standalone programs for si- mulating the controller’s performance (validating the con- troller by simulation then implementing it). Sample software development using LabVIEW software is shown in figure 4.

Fig.4. Software development (LabVIEW )

6.7 Experimental setup

The experimental method is a scientific method. It is oriented to the future in the sense that the researcher is seeking to evaluate something new. The experimental groups are given a description of the basic design rules derived from the literature like Yogesh (2006) [46], Lisa, et al. (2008) [47] and Lucienne and Amaresh (2009) [48] and applied these while designing. The designers in the con- trol group are only given the design task. The task is based on one of the cases in the empirical study. A sam- ple experimental setup is shown in figure 5.

Fig.5. Experimental setup

7 PREDICTION AND ANALYSIS OF DATA USING SOFTWARE BASED MECHATRONICS SYSTEM

The prediction and analysis of present data in a process / product will play a vital role in an organization during the decision marking about the quality improvements, performance improvements, processes improvements, newer innovations etc. In order to examine the existing data in products / processes, this paper insists them to utilize the software based mechatronics system. Godfrey [4] stated that mechatronics is the synergistic combination of precision mechanical engineering, electronic control, and systems thinking in design of products and manufac- turing processes. According to Mahalik (2003) [36], an automatic control system could perform a repetitive job; but could not take any decision in the event of variable circumstances. So, the introduction of software based sys- tem monitors the status of the process continuously and takes corrective action dynamically to stabilize the process.

7.1 Experimentation

As suggested by Auston (1997) [49], experimental metho- dology would also improve the quality of researches. Pande and Holpp (2002) [50] expressed that experimental is a method for developing and conducting controlled assessments of how a process or a product performs, usually testing two or more characteristics under different conditions. In addition to helping target causes of a prob- lem, it can be essential to get maximum benefit out of so- lutions. USEPA (2007) [51] insisted that the experimenta- tion may make sense to start testing techniques at the or- ganizational levels help to identify synergies and oppor- tunities and evaluate how well they worked. Adapt the validated results to fit into the organizational systems and culture.
Anders (2004) [3] pointed out that conducting experimen- tation is the purpose of achieving cost-efficient and accu- rate enough prediction of data to support optimization and well-informed design decisions during research and

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development. Claimed by AISB (2005) [52], carrying ex- perimental methods of the arts into research in order to create a new form of inquiry that has real agency on so- cial, conceptual and economic levels. Agoria (2006) [8] studies show that the experimental models, being able to reproduce many typical experimental tests, permit, still in the design phase, to optimize the process to a much larger extent than traditional tools.
As stated by Nikolay (2007) [53] after the completion of successful experiment, the acquired knowledge reaches another point at which the individual is able to control the entity. Wolfgang and Stanislav (2008) [54] indicated that experiments include analytical or approximate calcu- lation or simulation models derived from engineering sciences. As described by Sophie (2009) [7], experimenta- tion is required to determine what parameters are neces- sary to be found by the research at long term to achieve the goal. Sample experimentation is shown in figure 6.
Claimed by AISB (2005) [52] the outcomes in order to eva- luate a research’s success and is crucial to shift the focus onto the dynamics of the evolving discourse that led to the concrete results. Wolfgang and Stanislav (2008) [54] expressed that designing more efficient, effective, ration- al, better directed, with a better outcome becomes a wel- come addition to the information for researchers. The sample outcomes of vibration level through LabVIEW front panel are shown in figure 7.

TABLE 1

PREDICTION OF VIBRATION LEVEL

Max = maximum, Min = Minimum, Avg =Average

Fig.6. Experimentation

7.2 Experimental outcomes


The measurements of outcomes are usually needed ac- companied by some investigation of process. The ability to turn information and data into effective action brings desirable outcomes for a research / organization. Anders (2004) [3] stated that the outcome of the experimentation is crucial for future research.

Fig.7. LabVIEW front panel

As stated by Mark and Peter (2001) [58] the innovations and changes that occur in all successful organizations are disruptive and dysfunctional unless their purpose is well articulated and communicated, they are coordinated, and those affected by them feel a sense of ownership and in- fluence over their nature and outcomes. Based on the statement given by Luis (2011) [26], the outcomes of present research will involve not only researchers and academics in general, but also companies who wish to assess the potential for transfer of results to their applica- tions. The sample outcomes of vibration analysis are shown in table 1.

7.3 Experimental validation

According to Janeri and Lewis (2003) [55], as a conse- quence, numerous suggestions are made about how to cross-check the validity of a finding or conclusion (valida- tion) or to allow sufficient access to the research process for others to do so themselves (documentation). Check- ing accuracy of fit which involve deriving hypotheses from one part of the data and testing them on another by constant checking and comparison across different. And- ers (2004) [3] pointed out that validation aims at checking if a model is suitable for its intended purpose by compar- ing the experimentation results to what is expected by the user or to results obtained from studying the real system.

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Agoria (2006) [8] studies show that validations of the present outcomes are to be done prior to starting the reg- ular operations. Eiji and Tatsuo (2007) [15] reported that the validation of the proposed model identified by expe- riments shows well corresponding to real attendant's propelling behaviour. As expressed by SPLMS (2010) [18] validation enables manufacturing companies to accu- rately and efficiently define the manufacturing process plan for their component parts. Luis (2011) [26] point of view, for ensuring high quality solutions; the proposed systems are to be undergone verification and validation.

8 RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS

As stated by Murray (2008) [56], positive results helps create and maintain team spirit and commitment to the team objectives, most importantly, it may drive innova- tion within the team. Rouhani (2006) [57] insisted that the research results are significant, taking into the ac- count that traditional industry has to be changed into global competitive, innovative and technology developed industry. As expressed by Russell (2006) [11], the expe- rimental results of an investigation can be conducive to further innovative work. Janeri and Lewis (2003) [55] reported that the discussions suggest a revision of the research objectives, or a radical change in the way in which the data are collected, and then there may be more reason to consider or not. Mark and Peter (2001) [58] pointed out that the discussion aims to describe and ex- plain some different funding options for qualitative re- search and to highlight the processes and issues involved in each. Lisa, et al., (2008) [47], discussion concerning a problem / solution often produces useful information. Various newer concepts can be developed through such an exercise.

8.1 Cost and time saving applications

AISB (2005) [52] outlined that the skills required to create reliable mechatronics design at low cost are acquired by experience. BEC (2006) [38] suggested that machine builders are expected to develop machines with higher throughput that, at the same time, reduce operational costs and increase safety. As expressed by Agoria (2006) [8] a mechatronics design approach is a key to all three avenues and there is likely to be hybrid integrations of two or more approaches in order to meet cost/performance targets for particular sectors and appli- cations. Brian (2007) [59] explained that the simplicity of the mechatronics design provides relatively low experi- mental costs, less time to construct and more data reliabil- ity. The expected cost and time saving applications are shown in figure 8.

Fig.7. Cost and time savings

8.2 Reliability of software based mechatronics system

John (2007) [30] studies show that a more reliable process data will lead to higher quality products, processes and services. As described by Wolfgang and Stanislav (2008) [54] correct and reliable information, at the right time, and in a usable form is currently one of the problems. Luis (2011) [26] indicated that science and industry are constantly evolving that whether it is possible to create a system capable of facilitating communications, yet be portable, reliable, eventually self-powered and very sim- ple to use. These parameters are fulfilled by mechatronics design.

9 CONCLUSIONS

This paper conclusion is based on the conceptual analysis of the software based mechatronics approach. Present manufacturing industry attention illustrates the need for the integration of manufacturing process and a software simulation for reaching a better solution within short time and low cost. This paper brings few ideas on software based mechatronics system to fulfill the manufacturing environments’ expectations. This approach had bring the number of benefits like low cost for experimental, reliable data, lead time reduction, productivity improvements, quick change over, more profitability, more customer satisfaction and innovative technology developments.
This paper has an approach in that software based me- chatronics approach to ensure an approach that will bene- fit end-users. This approach to manufacturing via process monitoring and control, supported strongly by product performances and characterization of the final product to ensure a component / process of high quality in all aspects has been applauded. This innovative ap- proach has yielded extremely positive benefits to all manufacturing industries internationally.

ACKNOWLEDGMENT

The authors would like to thank Dr.S.R.K.Prasad, D.Sc
(USA), Correspondent of Coimbatore Institute of Tech-

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nology, Coimbatore, India for his support and providing them with efficient lab facilities for perusing this research. They would like to thank the management and em- ployees of M/s. Mayur Motor Industries, Coimbatore, India and M/s. National Instruments Corporation, Ban- galore, India for their continuous and inestimable co- operations during the experimental setups, predictions and analysis of relevant data.

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AUTHORS’ VITAE

Ramamoorthy.C., Research Scholar, Department of Mechanical Engineer- ing, Coimbatore Institute of Technol- ogy, Coimbatore, Tamilnadu, India. His research interest includes the in- tegration of lean principles and me- chatronics systems. He perused B.E. (Mechanical), M.E. (Advanced Manu-

facturing Technology) and M.B.A. (Production Man- agement). He holds 10 years of professional experience including 7 years of industrial experiences, 3 years of teaching experiences and 3 years of research expe- rience. He is the recipient of awards for his outstanding services, achievements and contributions, to include, best performance award from M/s. Trichy steel rolling

mills limited, Tiruchirappalli, India, Cash award M/s. Autoprint machinery manufacturers private limited, Coimbatore, India and best performance award from M/s. Turboprint Machinery Manufacturers India (P) Ltd, Coimbatore, India. He published 2 research pa- pers in various International Journals, presented 1 technical paper in a worldwide conference (Malaysia) and published 21 technical papers in various interna- tional / National conference proceedings in the area of manufacturing technology and mechatronics engineer- ing.

Dr.V.Selladurai, Principal of Coimbatore Institute of Technology, Coimbatore, Ta- milnadu, India, his research interest in- cludes the manufacturing systems, model- ing and simulation, operation research, scheduling and optimization. He holds 28 years instituted by Coimbatore institute of technology, Coimbatore, best Journal Pa-

per award from professional experience including 3 years of industrial experience and 30 years of teaching experience. He is the recipient of awards for his outstanding services, achievements and contributions to include, best teacher award in the academic year 1999-2000 Journal of Industrial Engineering, best session paper award in the National Con- ference on Challenges in Achieving Global Quality, best ses- sion paper Award from the International Conference on (EISCO 2005), best Paper Award from Twelth National Con- vention of Electrochemists (NCE-12). He received project funds at a sum of Rs.56.5 Lakhs from various funding agen- cies. He successfully guided 25 Ph.D research projects in var- ious fields. He organized 5 International conferences, 3 Na- tional conferences and 10 International workshops in various fields. He published 95 International Journals, 55 National Journals, and more than 175 International / National confe- rence proceedings. He is reviewer of 5 reputed International Journals.

Dr.Rajesh Ranganathan, Associate Pro- fessor, Department of Mechanical Engi- neering, Coimbatore Institute of Tech- nology, Coimbatore, Tamilnadu, India. His research interests include, supply chain management, rapid manufacturing, inventory reduction, lead-time reduction, product and process customization, stra- tegic planning and multi criteria decision

analysis. He holds work experience as a business consultant

/ knowledge transfer partnership associate working for oil and gas industry in Aberdeen, Scotland, U.K. He worked with National Health Service U.K. and with a leading health care industry in Europe in the area of strategic planning, technological forcasting, inventory reduciton, product cus- tomization, and manufacturing lead time reduction. He guides researchers in different disciplines. He published about 15 International and National journals.

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