A model for product data tracking and tracing in production networks

Recalls of defective products that pose risks for their users cause enormous costs and a loss of image for the concerned producers. Common reasons are the increasing technical complexity and growing number of product variants developed under high pressure of cost and deadline. In this paper the model for an integrated traceability system in production networks will be presented with the following solution components: (1) dynamically adaptable subsidiary systems for the continuous acquisition of quality and security relevant data (machine, process and product parameters) for all production stages of a supplier network (2) administration and long-term archiving function of product data which have to be stored tamper-proof over a long period of time and (3) efficient analysis algorithms for the multivalent use of product data (beyond the recall).