OFBIZ-13239 - Getting issue details... STATUS

Introduction

After setting up the Bill of Materials (BOM) in Apache OFBiz, the next crucial phase is production, where components are transformed into a finished product. This stage involves multiple aspects such as resource planning, scheduling, and task coordination to ensure smooth manufacturing operations. Efficient production management requires a structured approach, ensuring that all operations are performed in a logical sequence.

One of the key elements in production execution is Routing, which defines the sequence of operations required to manufacture a product. Routing acts as a blueprint for production, guiding the flow of tasks and ensuring that resources are optimally allocated. Without Routing, a product cannot be successfully created, as it provides the necessary path and step-by-step instructions for the manufacturing process.

In Apache OFBiz, Routing plays a crucial role in streamlining production workflows by organizing tasks in a structured manner. In this guide, we will use a skateboard as an example to demonstrate the process of setting up Routing in Apache OFBiz, offering a clear and structured approach to production execution.

What is Routing?

Routing is a collection of tasks that must be executed in a specific sequence to manufacture an item efficiently. It acts as a roadmap for production and resource planning, ensuring that each task is carried out in a logical and efficient manner to achieve the desired final product.

The Importance of Routing in Production Execution

  • Provides a clear structure for the manufacturing process.
  • Ensures each step is completed in the correct sequence.
  • Helps optimize resource utilization and workflow efficiency.
  • Enables tracking and monitoring of production steps.

What is a Routing Task?

A Routing task represents an individual step in the manufacturing process, such as lamination, shaping, or applying transfers.

Process of Routing Setup in Apache OFBiz for Skateboard

A skateboard, as a finished product, consists of various components and sub-components, each requiring distinct Routing and Routing tasks. These tasks play a vital role in the final assembly. Below are the Routing and associated Routing tasks for each:

Skateboard Deck FG – Routing for the skateboard

  • Routing Tasks for Skateboard FG:
      • Final Assembly

Deck Sub-Assembly – Routing for the deck sub-assembly

  • Routing Tasks for Deck Sub-Assembly:
      • LAM (Lamination)
      • Shape Deck

Step 1: Creating a Routing

        1.1 Navigate to Manufacturing > Routings > New Routing.

         

        1.2 Fill in the following details:

    • Routing Name: (e.g., Skateboard Deck FG)
    • Description: (e.g., Routing for the finished goods)

       

        1.3 Similarly, create a Routing for the sub-assembly (e.g., Deck Sub-Assembly).

       

Step 2: Creating Routing Tasks

Steps to Create Routing Tasks:

       2.1 Navigate to Manufacturing > Routing Tasks > New Routing Task. 

       

       2.2 Fill in the following details:

    • Routing Task Name: (e.g., Lamination)
    • Task Type: (e.g., Manufacturing)
    • Description: Add relevant details for clarity.

       

       2.3 Similarly, create additional Routing tasks such as:

    • Shape Deck (for Deck Sub Component)
    • Apply Transfer (for Skateboard FG)

Step 3: Linking Routing Tasks to Routing

      3.1 Navigate to Manufacturing > Routings.

       

       3.2 Search for the previously created Routing and click Find (e.g., Skateboard FG and Deck Sub Component).

       3.3 Select the Routings and Edit Routing Task Assoc.

         

       3.4 In Edit Routing Task Association, enter the details:

    • Routing Task ID: (e.g., Apply Transfer (10014))
    • Sequence Num: (e.g., 10) 
    • Click on Add a existing RoutingTask or Copy a routingTask and Add it

Note :

  • Use “Add an Existing Routing Task” when you want to link a specific routing to a specific product.
  • Use “Copy a routingTask and Add it” when you want to reuse an existing routing across multiple products or associate a product with the routing created for another product.

         

         

Note: We use sequence numbers in multiples of 10 as an industry best practice, allowing easy intermediate task additions without renumbering. 

         3.5 Similarly, assign Routing task associations for the Deck Sub Component Routing.


Step 4: Link the Routing to the Product

On the same page, navigate to “Edit Routing Product Link.”

       

     4.1 Enter the Product ID for the product you want to associate with the routing.

     

      4.2 Click Update.

Once updated, the linked product (STC1005) will appear in the list.

       

To link another routing (e.g., for the sub-assembly Deck), repeat the same steps and update the Product ( STC1004) in the respective routing (Deck Sub-Assembly).

Final Step: Overview of the Routing and related Routing Task

By linking Routing tasks to Routing, we established a set of tasks needed for production. This setup will be used in Apache OFBiz when creating a production run to automatically create tasks that need to be carried out for producing the skateboard. 

     

       

Conclusion

With this Routing setup in Apache OFBiz, manufacturers can define and control each step and task involved in the production process—from raw material handling to final assembly. By mapping out the entire sequence of tasks, the system enables streamlined workflows, optimized resource allocation, and clear accountability at every stage. This not only enhances operational efficiency but also ensures consistent product quality and timely execution of manufacturing activities.