Method to optimize a customer's manufacturing processes and internal business processes in a comprehensive manner
First Claim
1. A method of doing business between a customer of tooling technology and a distributor of tooling technology, wherein the distributor supplies tooling technology to be utilized in a manufacturing process practiced by the customer in the course of manufacturing, comprising the steps of:
- conducting an assessment of the manufacturing process;
identifying possible modifications to the manufacturing process and identifying estimated savings associated with the possible modifications, responsive to the step of conducting an assessment;
generating a commercial arrangement between the customer and the distributor to incorporate modifications proposed at least in part by the distributor to a contemplated manufacturing process which is contemplated to be used in the future by the customer, in exchange for compensation which will accrue to the distributor;
generating an improved manufacturing process wherein the distributor modifies the contemplated manufacturing process by incorporating revised tooling technology in the contemplated manufacturing process;
implementing the improved manufacturing process at the premises of the customer; and
evaluating the improved manufacturing process to determine whether expected economic savings will be realized.
1 Assignment
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Accused Products
Abstract
A method of institutionalizing technical expertise in the machine tool sector of an economy. A distributor of tooling technology enters into an agreement or arrangement with a customer which utilizes tooling technology in business operations, wherein the distributor provides expertise in exchange for which the customer satisfies tooling technology needs by purchasing from the distributor. The distributor surveys machining procedures used by the customer and improves the procedures, which are than put into practice during actual commercial operations of the customer. The improved procedures are evaluated to verify actual savings accruing from the improvements. The distributor establishes a sales force for conducting sales functions, a technical group for improving machining procedures, and an implementation specialist for managing inventory control at the customer premises. The sales force is freed from performing sales support activities outside of its area of expertise.
21 Citations
12 Claims
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1. A method of doing business between a customer of tooling technology and a distributor of tooling technology, wherein the distributor supplies tooling technology to be utilized in a manufacturing process practiced by the customer in the course of manufacturing, comprising the steps of:
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conducting an assessment of the manufacturing process;
identifying possible modifications to the manufacturing process and identifying estimated savings associated with the possible modifications, responsive to the step of conducting an assessment;
generating a commercial arrangement between the customer and the distributor to incorporate modifications proposed at least in part by the distributor to a contemplated manufacturing process which is contemplated to be used in the future by the customer, in exchange for compensation which will accrue to the distributor;
generating an improved manufacturing process wherein the distributor modifies the contemplated manufacturing process by incorporating revised tooling technology in the contemplated manufacturing process;
implementing the improved manufacturing process at the premises of the customer; and
evaluating the improved manufacturing process to determine whether expected economic savings will be realized. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12)
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Specification