The ENSPHERE® Project
BASF has launched a customized information system called the ENSPHERE® Project for automotive manufacturers. This system is designed for both BASF and the OEM customer to collect, analyze and communicate technical data and general information across the process chain. This data can be used in the future to develop new paint systems, as well as to optimize current products and processes.A competitive advantage for BASF in the marketplace, this is an innovative, secure electronic database exclusively operated by BASF and its customers. Each BASF automotive OEM customer has its own customized database that only designated people on both sides can access.The "Virtual Information System" was created to allow enhanced information exchange between companies in a suitable "user friendly" format. It was designed to have a high degree of security, thus preventing unwanted disclosure of sensitive information to unauthorized users.
T he Virtual Information System offers up-to-date MSDS, product data sheets, miscellaneous educational material and direct access to the process control databases.The "behind the scenes" component of the ENSPHERE Project consists of three interconnected databases with information gathered from the raw material manufacturing, paint manufacturing and OEM application processes. The extranet "Virtual Information System" component of ENSPHERE is an on-line, password-protected interface that gives users throughout the chain access to data and analysis results.The process of painting a vehicle is a unique and complex process that is very dynamic in nature. Many variables can influence the quality of the final cured film. Variables can be present in the manufacturing steps of raw materials, resin, paint, or during the application of the coating. Each of these items has a unique process, all of which can have a direct influence on the output of another. When combining the processes, it can be viewed as the "process chain" for a given product in its final state. For coatings, this would be the cured film applied on the vehicle.
I n all cases, methods are implemented to control variance within each process step. However, since these variables can effect the operating parameters of other sequential processes, interdependencies must be identified and controlled. In addition, when looking at the current automotive painting process, the individual processes are under the control of different companies. This causes an added complexity with information sharing across company boundaries. All of the companies in the process chain can use ENSPHERE for faster troubleshooting, real-time feedback, historical archiving of information and fast access to it, and defining best practices.The big picture is that the ENSPHERE Project facilitates vastly improved communication between BASF and our customers to better share information that will result in an improved final product. |
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