Office Closed for Family Day – 2025

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To our valued customers–

Our office will be closed on February 17th, 2025 for family day. Our office will re-open the following day.

Enjoy the long weekend!

Addressing Industry 4.0 Concerns with MERLIN Tempus EE

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 Implementing Industry 4.0 solutions like MERLIN Tempus Enterprise Edition (EE) can raise concerns among production and plant managers. By leveraging insights from recent MEMEX articles and highlighting the platform’s core features, this response demonstrates how MERLIN Tempus EE effectively addresses these concerns while driving cultural transformation, operational efficiency, and innovation.

  1. Shop Floor Adoption of Technology

Message:
“We understand the challenge of introducing new technology to the shop floor. The uncertainty of acceptance can stymie any technology deployment. Advanced machine tools and robotics introduce more of a disruptive influence than MERLIN ever will. MERLIN Tempus EE simplifies adoption with its intuitive design, user-friendly interface, and seamless integration into existing workflows. We provide robust training and support to ensure smooth implementation and confident usage.”

Supporting Information:

  • MERLIN Features: Customizable, real-time dashboards make data easily accessible for operators at all levels, reducing resistance and improving adoption.
  • Cultural Insight: MERLIN fosters cultural alignment by empowering employees to see how their actions directly impact overall performance. (Source: An Approach to Cultural Change)
  • Case Example: Adoption becomes easier when teams understand the “why” behind the change and see visible improvements in efficiency. (Source: Effective Shop Floor Management)

 

  1. Accuracy of Data

Message:
There is a host of systems developed internally or offered by various software vendors that can’t deliver on anything more than the simplest of data connections. The fact is, connecting to the machine should no longer be the hard part. “Accurate data is at the core of MERLIN Tempus EE. By directly connecting to machines and automating data capture, the platform ensures reliability and eliminates errors associated with manual entry.” MERLIN eliminates double-entry and minimizes operator input to only essential responses.

Supporting Information:

  • MERLIN Features: It supports industry-standard protocols such as MTConnect, MQTT, MQTT Sparkplug B, Modbus, and API. XML, JSON, and OPC are used for seamless and precise data collection from diverse equipment. Furthermore, unlike our counterparts, we preprocess the incoming data to normalize and validate the information so that the data in the database is consistent across all assets. Our counterparts prefer “Garbage in, Garbage out.”
  • Operational Insight: Data accuracy builds trust between teams, enabling collaborative decision-making and a focus on actionable insights. (Source: Effective Shop Floor Management)
  • Efficiency Impact: Real-time data allows proactive adjustments, minimizing downtime and improving OEE metrics. (Source: Operational Efficiency and Recommendations)

 

  1. Data Utilization (Avoiding Unused Data Lakes)

Message:
“MERLIN Tempus EE transforms raw data into actionable insights. By aligning data collection with your KPIs, the system ensures every data point contributes to operational improvements.” MERLIN has twenty plus metrics being calculated.

Supporting Information:

  • MERLIN Features: Real-time analytics, tailored dashboards, and proactive alerts enable teams to address bottlenecks and inefficiencies instantly.
  • Strategic Insight: MERLIN ensures data serves a purpose by tying it to measurable goals, fostering a culture of continuous improvement. (Source: An Approach to Cultural Change)
  • Innovation Highlight: Advanced analytics allow managers to make data-driven decisions, improving operational efficiency and achieving sustainability. (Source: Revolutionizing Manufacturing)

 

  1. Project Cost Overruns and Predictability

Message:
“We understand that cost control is a top priority. MERLIN Tempus EE offers modular, scalable deployment options that allow you to start small, prove ROI, and scale up based on your budget and requirements.”

Supporting Information:

  • MERLIN Features: Phased implementation ensures costs remain predictable and ROI is visible at every stage before scaling further.
  • Operational Insight: A modular approach reduces risk by allowing gradual adoption aligned with your operational capacity. (Source: Operational Efficiency and Recommendations)
  • Case Study: Successful projects show clear cost savings by avoiding unnecessary complexity while delivering measurable improvements. (Source: Effective Shop Floor Management)

 

  1. Risk of Project Failure

Message:
“Our implementation methodology ensures clear milestones, frequent reviews, and collaborative engagement to mitigate risks and ensure project success.”

Supporting Information:

  • MERLIN Features: Real-time reporting and automated workflows reduce complexity and ensure projects are completed on time and within budget.
  • Cultural Insight: Early and consistent involvement of shop floor teams promotes buy-in, minimizing resistance and ensuring alignment with business goals. (Source: An Approach to Cultural Change)
  • Success Story: Real-world applications highlight how MERLIN’s structured approach leads to operational excellence. (Source: Revolutionizing Manufacturing)

 

  1. Past Negative Experiences (e.g., ERP/MES Deployments)

Message:
“We understand that past deployments may have fallen short. MERLIN Tempus EE differentiates itself by focusing on simplicity, fast integration, and empowering teams with actionable data to enhance decision-making.”

Supporting Information:

  • MERLIN Features: Seamlessly integrates with existing ERP/MES systems to complement and enhance their functionality with real-time production data.
  • Operational Insight: Unlike traditional systems, MERLIN emphasizes flexibility and scalability to meet the unique needs of each operation. (Source: Effective Shop Floor Management)
  • Efficiency Impact: By avoiding overcomplicated implementations, MERLIN delivers measurable improvements faster. (Source: Operational Efficiency and Recommendations)

 

  1. Stakeholder Buy-In Challenges

Message:
“MERLIN Tempus EE ensures cross-departmental buy-in by aligning its benefits with the priorities of operations, finance, and management. Real-time data fosters collaboration and demonstrates measurable ROI for all stakeholders.”

Supporting Information:

  • MERLIN Features: Comprehensive analytics and tailored reporting highlight clear value across teams, building consensus and breaking silos.
  • Cultural Insight: Transparent communication of goals and shared metrics creates alignment and trust across departments. (Source: An Approach to Cultural Change)
  • Case Example: ROI-focused demonstrations secure buy-in from even the most skeptical stakeholders. (Source: Revolutionizing Manufacturing)

 

Closing Assurance

“By choosing MERLIN Tempus EE, you’re investing in a proven solution designed to address your operational challenges while driving cultural transformation. With features tailored for efficiency, accuracy, and collaboration, MERLIN ensures a seamless transition to enhanced manufacturing operations.”

 

  The Current State of Manufacturing in the USA

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Manufacturing in the United States is at a pivotal juncture. Over the past decade, efforts to bolster domestic manufacturing have intensified due to geopolitical shifts, trade imbalances, and the economic repercussions of over-reliance on global supply chains. Key drivers of this renewed focus include the strategic application of tariffs, incentives to re-shore production, and a national commitment to revitalizing the manufacturing sector. This approach aims to mitigate vulnerabilities exposed during global disruptions while creating jobs and fostering economic growth.

Despite these efforts, the global manufacturing landscape remains highly competitive. U.S. manufacturers face significant challenges, including higher labor costs, stringent regulatory requirements, and the increasing demand for customization and rapid delivery. To address these issues and remain competitive, the industry is adopting cutting-edge technologies to maximize efficiency, reduce waste, and enhance visibility into manufacturing processes.

  Focus on Smart Manufacturing and Efficiency

Efficiency has become the cornerstone of modern manufacturing. Smart manufacturing technologies empower companies to optimize processes, reduce downtime, and increase productivity. Central to this transformation is the implementation of advanced tools like   MERLIN Tempus Enterprise Edition (EE)  , which brings a new level of visibility, connectivity, and performance tracking to the factory floor.

MERLIN Tempus EE offers a robust solution for integrating manufacturing operations management with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems, enabling seamless data exchange and actionable insights. With these tools, manufacturers can effectively compete by leveraging real-time data to make informed decisions, meet customer demands, and reduce overhead costs.

 The Role of MERLIN Tempus EE in Modern Manufacturing

ERP Integration and Transparency

MERLIN Tempus EE extends traditional ERP systems by feeding them real-time data from the shop floor. For example, if a customer inquires about the status of an order, MERLIN provides instant visibility into where the work order is in the production process, eliminating the need for manual inquiries and delays. This connectivity allows manufacturers to meet deadlines with greater accuracy and foster trust with customers.

Enhanced Features

The MERLIN Tempus EE software is designed to enhance efficiency and productivity through a comprehensive set of features:

–   Dynamic Job Scheduling:   Allows real-time adjustments to operation steps and prioritization of tasks.

–   Performance Tracking:   Measures jobs against product standards, providing insights into labor and machine performance.

–   Labor and Machine Management:   Tracks multiple operators and machines, optimizing resource allocation.

–   Data Exchange:   Facilitates integration with other applications, supporting APIs and JSON for dynamic connectivity.

Driving Continuous Improvement

MERLIN Tempus EE supports lean initiatives by uncovering hidden production capacity, identifying constraints, and validating process improvements. It enables manufacturers to:

– Reduce downtime.

– Identify operational bottlenecks and inefficiencies.

– Improve overall equipment effectiveness (OEE).

– Foster a culture of collaboration and data-driven decision-making.

Modular Design for Future Readiness

The modular architecture of MERLIN Tempus EE ensures compatibility with emerging technologies, empowering factories to integrate future advancements in smart manufacturing. This adaptability is crucial as the industry evolves toward greater automation, predictive analytics, and machine learning.

The Path Forward for U.S. Manufacturing

U.S. manufacturers must embrace smart technologies like MERLIN Tempus EE to remain competitive. These tools provide a pathway to achieving world-class efficiency and meeting the demands of modern manufacturing. By integrating advanced software solutions with strategic initiatives, manufacturers can bring production back to the U.S. while maintaining the cost-effectiveness needed to thrive in a global marketplace.

Investments in technology, workforce training, and process optimization will ensure that U.S. manufacturing remains a cornerstone of economic growth and innovation. MERLIN Tempus EE exemplifies how digital transformation can drive the industry toward a more sustainable and prosperous future.

 

by: Tim Smith, Director of Technology Adoption

Memex Partners With Production Process Through Reciprocal-Reseller Arrangements

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Burlington, ON, Canada – October 26, 2023 – Memex Inc. (“Memex” or the “Company”) (TSX-V: OEE), a leader in Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) manufacturing productivity software, today announced that it has entered into reciprocal reseller agreements with software developer Production Process.  These arrangements will see Production Process, headquartered in Jacksonville Beach, Florida, add MERLIN Tempus to its product offerings to its current and future scheduling software clientele, while Memex will promote Production Process’s proven Dynamic Scheduling software solution to its customers and prospects.

Production Process intends to discontinue supplying their ProductionAce™ hardware and software and introduce their customers to the advantages offered by Memex’s MERLIN Tempus Suite and connectivity components with integration to their scheduling application.

For MERLIN Tempus users, adding the ability to schedule orders using Dynamic Scheduling’s advanced algorithms will provide them the opportunity to maximize efficiency while receiving real time updates and feedback.

Both Memex and Production Process will benefit from the expansion of their product offerings and broadening of their respective product footprints without the need for further investment in development.   Sales and customer support cross training is anticipated to be completed by the end of the calendar year and both sales teams will start offering the combined product catalogue early in 2024.

Management Commentary:

“I see this partnership as a win for both Memex and Production Process customers who will be able to take advantage of this broadened manufacturing solution set,” Production Process COO, Brad Vigrass, commented, “as well as a win for both our organizations.  By tapping into each other’s user bases we will be able to generate additional revenue with limited additional selling costs.”

About Memex Inc.:

Established in 1992, Memex grew to be an industry leader in Industry Internet of Things (IIoT) through the development of MERLIN Tempus, an award-winning platform that delivers real-time, tangible increases in manufacturing productivity.  Memex is on the leading edge of industry trends in computing power, machine connectivity, industry standards, advanced software technology, and manufacturing domain expertise.

Our persistent pursuit of innovative IIoT solutions led to a comprehensive understanding of the challenge’s manufacturers face.  We made it our mission to, “successfully transform factories of today into factories of the future.”  As the global leader in Machine to Machine (M2M) connectivity solutions, our hardware and software products create unparalleled visibility at all levels, from “Shop-Floor-to-Top-Floor.”

The MERLIN Tempus Suite provides effective quantification and management of Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) by revealing hidden capacity using real-time objective data.  Further, it offers sustainable benefits that enable world-class OEE such as reducing costs, incorporating strategies for continuous LEAN improvement, and boosting bottom-line financial performance.  For more information, please visit: www.MemexOEE.com

About Production Process:

For over 35 years, Production Process has been helping manufacturing companies optimize their production environment with intelligent communicating instruments with direct operator interaction, advanced scheduling software to optimize order workflow and provide real time feedback from the shop floor as well as full shop floor analytics. The ProductionAce™ product offers standard ERP integration and Dynamic Scheduling with real time feedback to provide effective efficiency and management of the plant floor. For more information, please visit: www.ProductionProcess.com

For Investor Inquiries Please Contact:

Ed Crymble, Chief Financial Officer

905-635-1540

investor.relations@memexOEE.com

 David McPhail, President & CEO

905-635-1540

investor.relations@memexOEE.com

 

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation services provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

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Achieving Successful MERLIN Deployment: The Role of a Dedicated Champion and Committed Management

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We are thrilled to introduce you to the MERLIN Tempus platform, a powerful tool that can revolutionize your shop floor operations. To ensure a successful deployment, we have observed that having a dedicated champion selected from your ranks, along with unwavering support from management and all departments, is crucial. The champion will play a pivotal role in driving the implementation forward and achieving the desired outcomes. Below is an instructional guide on how to ensure a smooth and successful MERLIN deployment:

1. Pick and Enroll Machines:
– Create an ongoing multi-phase project plan to systematically select and enroll machines into MERLIN.
– Prioritize machines based on their criticality to value streams and operational efficiency.

2. Address Problematic Machines:
– Identify any problematic machines and create corrective action tickets for targeted improvements.
– Do not let issues curtail the overall deployment plan; address them in parallel with other activities.

3. Setup Views and Reports:
– Configure MERLIN to generate customized views and reports that align with the specific needs of your organization.
– Tailor the reports to provide actionable insights for different departments.

4. Introduce MERLIN to Everyone:
– Organize workshops and training sessions to familiarize all personnel with MERLIN, its features, and benefits.
– Ensure that employees understand how to utilize the platform to enhance their productivity.

5. Collaboration with Each Department:
– Work closely with each department to understand their objectives and requirements.
– Guide them through the process of selecting, enrolling, configuring, and generating data to meet their goals.

Specific Activities for Each Department:

a. Production:
– Generate throughput reports and delivery reports for performance analysis.
– Validate and update product standard cycle time, setup time, and material conveyance time in the ERP system.
– Establish data-driven strategies to manage human resources effectively.

b. Quality:
– Capture and analyze quality data, focusing on reject information and first piece run-off inspection tracking.
– Implement RED Tag QC disposition ticketing for efficient quality management.
– Institute traceability measures to monitor and enhance product quality.

c. Maintenance:
– Utilize runtime/cut time accumulators and triggers to inform maintenance teams proactively.
– Integrate E-alerts or email messaging for rapid response to maintenance needs.
– Incorporate scheduled maintenance tickets into the MERLIN job scheduler.

d. Engineering:
– Introduce Continuous Improvement (CI) tools, including GEMBA view, MPMM, Multi-machine State Summary View, Plant View, and Tooling View.
– Utilize ticketing for effective CI project management and issue resolution.
– Evaluate part-to-part time for identifying minor stoppages and implementing improvements.

The Vital Role of a MERLIN Champion:

Gentlemen, it cannot be emphasized enough that the success of the MERLIN deployment heavily relies on having a dedicated champion to drive the initiative forward. The champion will be instrumental in coordinating efforts, resolving challenges, and ensuring that the platform is seamlessly integrated into your daily operations. With a committed champion and management buy-in, you can create the necessary momentum to achieve outstanding results with MERLIN.

In conclusion, all the activities mentioned above are indeed doable and well within the scope of the MERLIN platform. We encourage you to select a champion from your ranks and garner support from all departments to embark on this transformative journey successfully.

If you have any questions or require further assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out to our team. We are here to support you every step of the way.