
ASMPT Unveils Software Pair for Seamless Automated Material Flow Optimization
Maximizing uptime with full transparency
Munich (Germany), July 15, 2025 – ASMPT, a global leader in semiconductor and electronics manufacturing hardware and software, has launched two integrated software tools to fully automate material flow optimization in smart factories. The Factory Material Manager and WORKS Logistics applications unlock the full potential of ASMPT’s advanced manufacturing hardware.
To boost equipment utilization, cut excess inventory, and reduce waste, real-time visibility of stock, storage locations, and SMT line material needs is critical. Linking live stock data with demand enables precise process control, boosting ROI.
Thomas Bliem, Vice President of R&D at ASMPT SMT Solutions, notes: “Our high-end equipment needs constant material replenishment to run efficiently. Two key questions arise: Where is each material (in which package/container)? And where is it needed, in what quantity? Our integrated software answers both.”
Factory Material Manager: Real-time inventory tracking
Upon receiving new materials, the system assigns each package a unique ID (UID) linked to details like quantity, manufacturer, batch, expiration, and moisture sensitivity. Scanning the UID updates location changes, while line consumption data is fed in via standard interfaces. This creates a real-time digital twin of material flow, enabling optimized pick lists, integration with auto-storage systems, and adherence to FIFO (first-in-first-out) protocols and moisture-sensitive device (MSD) exposure rules.
WORKS Logistics: Material flow via the 4R principle
WORKS Logistics provides line consumption data to Factory Material Manager. It uses rough production schedules (e.g., from WORKS Planning) and matches them with available resources to balance supply and demand.
- For small runs: Supplies initial setup materials and refills to cover the entire order.
- For large runs: Forecasts time-slice-based demand, prompting Factory Material Manager to request supplies from storage and schedule timely transport.
Together, they form a just-in-time logistics system that follows the 4R principle: right material, right place, right time, right quantity.
Post-production, WORKS Logistics analyzes leftover material on machines. If a feeder is needed soon, staff are directed to move it to the setup area’s Active Feeder Rack. Color-coded LEDs guide operators: blinking red means tear down and return material; steady green means keep it ready for upcoming setups.
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