42T’s Simon Copley is published in FMCG CEO

Simon Copley, expert engineer at 42T, offers some valuable tips for successful process modelling in FMCG manufacturing

As manufacturing consultants, we are often asked by FMCG brand owners to help them understand their complex production processes so that they can improve performance or forecast behaviour with new products or formulations.

He says, “In an ideal world, every manufacturer wants a perfect computer model that captures every last detail of their process.

“This is so they can understand the impact of any alterations before they have even been made, or determine compatibility between their current manufacturing assets and any new product designs or recipes.

“But sometimes, an imperfect model is often the best investment. Drawing conclusions from a model is quicker and cheaper than testing. But these judgements can only be trusted if the model is sufficiently detailed.

“This article explores some of our recommendations and experience gained from helping clients build imperfect models of their process.”

We ask (and answer) these questions

1. Why do you need a process model?
2. What is the business case?
3. When is a complex simulation needed?
4. Which inputs should be modelled?

Finally, Simon discusses his Top Tips for successful process modelling

Read the full article here: Aiming for imperfection (PDF) or online at www.fmcgceo.co.uk.

answers@42T.com | +44 (0)1480 302700 | www.linkedin.com/in/simoncopley

Simon is a highly practical mechanical engineer with a multidisciplinary technical background.

He uses his skills in projects as varied as designing assembly jigs to reduce the manufacturing cost of an industrial communications device, developing tests to assess the durability of a surgical device, and evaluating the strength of IP held by a large manufacturer of consumer products.