New RSBizWare Module From Rockwell Automation Enables Batch Processing Optimization With Powerful Analysis and Reporting Capability

BatchHistorian provides comprehensive tools for analyzing and reporting of batch process data to improve batch consistency and increase throughput

MILWAUKEE, September 23, 2002 - Batch manufacturers in a range of process industries can gain insight into their batch processing operations to improve batch quality, product consistency and increase production throughput with the new RSBizWare BatchHistorian module from complete automation leader Rockwell Automation. The module is a part of Rockwell Automation's RSBizWare architecture, which gathers and analyzes data, runs reports and provides users with complete control of batch-based production runs.

"Making consistent, high-quality batches in today's manufacturing
environment requires the ability to capture, analyze and archive batch event data," said Marcus Tennant, process solutions business product manager, Rockwell Automation. "BatchHistorian is tightly integrated with the RSBizWare infrastructure to provide users witha powerful set of tools for analyzing a wide variety of typical batch event data. It also provides users with the flexibility to correlate event-based and continuous data without requiring special SQL programming or database knowledge. In addition, its batch analysis GANNT style chart allows users to graphically compare up to
three batches and examine consistency between batches for quality
improvement."

BatchHistorian is part of RSBizware's open, scalable, multi-tiered
architecture and can be deployed over a variety of networks. This allows users to integrate and exchange batch and recipe information with business-wide information systems. In addition, the open architecture allows users to leverage the correlated data from BatchHistorian when using industry-specific data analysis applications from third party vendors.

BatchHistorian is a part of the RSBizWare 5.0 suite released in September 2002.

BatchHistorian collects and combines batch event and continuous data and assimilates it into data structures within the RSBizWare database where it can be easily accessed for analysis and reporting. By analyzing a wide range of process data such as phase start and stop times and operator actions with temperatures, pressures and flow rates, users can use the data to reduce process variability and improve consistency.

BatchHistorian captures data for every batch executed and can generate reports such as batch yields, material consumption, batch cycle times, genealogy, and other critical information. Any report can be generated and distributed automatically via printed reports, Web pages or email. It also includes pre-configured reports, which can be used as delivered or as templates for creating custom versions.

"We've invested a lot of time listening to what our customers want, and we have responded to their needs with BatchHistorian," said Ralph Kappelhoff, software business manager, Process Solutions, Rockwell Automation. "This comprehensive tool is another example of our commitment to developing solutions that enable process manufacturers to maximize productive capabilities."

Rockwell Automation (NYSE: ROK) is a world-leading provider of industrial automation power, control and information solutions that help customers meet their manufacturing productivity objectives. The company brings together leading brands in industrial automation for Complete Automation solutions, including Allen-Bradley controls and engineered services and Rockwell Software factory management software, Dodge mechanical power transmission products, and Reliance Electric motors and drives. The company also is a leading provider of contact management technologies and applications that
help companies more efficiently manage interaction with their own customers.

Headquartered in Milwaukee, Wis., USA, the company employs approximately 23,000 people at more than 450 locations serving customers in more than 80 countries.

RSBizWare, BatchHistorian, Complete Automation, Dodge, Reliance Electric, Allen-Bradley, and Rockwell Software are trademarks of Rockwell Automation.