Computer-Aided Materials Management and Control for a Shipbuilding Yard

Abstract

This paper deals with the development of a computerized information system for materials management and control for shipbuilding yards. It begins by critically examining the manual and semi-manual data processing methods used in medium and small-sized shipyards and highlighting their drawbacks. Based on this and with the knowledge of the ready availability of desktop computers in small/medium-sized shipyards, a computerized materials management and control system is proposed. The schema of the proposed database system is then presented by the help of block diagrams. A number of application programs have been developed to manage, control, and update the various database files under the "Network," "Purchase," "Inventory," and "Drawing" modules. The system has been tested in a simulated production environment by entering the production, planning, materials, and drawing information of two different vessels during construction. The range of information that can be obtained and the results from the proposed system are shown briefly. It is felt that a computerized information-based materials management system has a major role to play in the smooth and profitable running of a shipyard. It is very effective in a quick appraisal of complex queries relating to materials procurement, production and drawing status, and the cause of delays.