1.
Purpose:

We want SIMON™ to:

a.) Function as a unique, modular software, hardware, and custom content application for performing, tracking, and monitoring both maintenance and operational activities on any machine.

b.) Provide "just-in-time" learning, standardized maintenance procedures, complete parts information, machine operational status tracking, and the ability to connect remotely through video conferencing -- All by voice activation, touch screen, and/or keyboard on a "wearable," laptop, or desktop computer.

c.) Significantly reduce training and documentation costs as well as unnecessary service calls.

d.) Automatically track all maintenance and operational activities by machine.

2.
Solution:

SIMON™ evolved as a modular application with many parts, all of which can be customized based on client needs. SIMON™ is not just software -- It is also unique hardware, and custom content deliverable by LAN, WAN, Internet, Intranet, or on a local machine.

SIMON™ can be installed on a desktop or laptop. However, SIMON™ installed on a "wearable" computer system with voice activation and audio/video conferencing is truly an awesome solution.

Here are SIMON's™ "typical" content and functional modules.

A. Maintenance Procedures Module: Contains all remove/replace, adjust/align, and preventive servicing procedures. (see Figure 2)

Video can be included within a procedure, allowing "just-in-time" learning applications such as "how to set up a voltmeter" or "how to use an oscilloscope," for example. (See Figure 3) The Maintenance Procedures Module uses a combination of still video, motion video, audio, images, and/or text to effectively present the required information. All procedures are printable when SIMON™ is connected to a printer.

2.
Solution
(continued)

B. Diagnostic Module: This interface provides quick evaluation of the machine condition to determine the most likely cause of the fault condition. If the machine being evaluated is computer based, the Diagnostic Module can be tied directly to the machine for fault analysis. Results are returned in under two seconds (most cases).

If the machine is not computer based, then a diagnostic fault tree, which may or may not require user interaction, can be developed for fault analysis. Once the cause(s) of the fault are identified, the technician is presented with a list of procedures (from the Procedure Module) that should correct the condition and bring the machine quickly back to operational status.

2.
Solution
(continued)

C. Communications Module: This interface enables a "hands-free," voice activated connection to a customer service center (local or remote). An audio connection lets the user speak directly with a customer service technician via a headset while still at the machine.

SIMON™ is equipped with a small video camera (optional) so the user can transmit full motion video to the service center. This allows a remote service technician to "see" what is going on at the user's location. This provides a faster evaluation of the machine condition.

D. Parts Module: Parts information is available in one (or both) of two interfaces. The first is SIMON’s™ powerful search engine. The user can quickly look up parts data either by name or part number. (See Figure 4)

The second parts interface is a "visual" lookup using an illustrated parts breakdown. This breakdown consists of both images (video, photographic, etc.) and line art. (see Figure 5) The user can get to the exact part or part of the machine they are looking for by "drilling" down through a series of images and line art.

2.
Solution
(continued)

E. Reports Module: This interface generates custom reports based on user's specific needs. These can be daily reports, monthly reports, reports by machine, reports by user, or any other custom model. Reports appear on screen and are printable when SIMON™ is connected to a printer.

F. Security Module: Security enables user logons, assignment of passwords, setting different levels of user access, and the like. This Module is required if a report by user from the Reports Module is needed.

G. Learning Module: The Learning Module incorporates the use of computer based training (CBT) standards to provide, for example, lessons on how to use the equipment or how to use SIMON™. Learning is presented as both technical and non-technical information. The environment and pace are controlled and trackable. This module can reduce or even replace formal classroom training.

H. Help Module: Help is available for all Modules and provides the user with the information needed to make the most efficient and effective use of SIMON™.

3.
Prior State:

Technicians used bulky, out-of-date paper documentation and expensive classroom training. Remote "help desk" was available only by nearest telephone. Machine operators used a tedious QNX based system tied to the machine software.

4.
User Profile:

USPS Technicians using SIMON™ are typically long-term employees with heavy experience and training. Formal education is usually High School diploma with technical background or training. Age is 30 - 35 (typical).

Machine operators usually do not have the technical background that technicians do.

5.
Results:

SIMON™ reduces downtime by providing typical repair and maintenance procedures to the individuals in a position to perform them on-site. This cuts the travel cost involved with sending certified technicians to perform the same typical repair or maintenance procedure at one, or more, remote locations.

SIMON™ increases consistency in repair and maintenance by replacing paper documentation. SIMON's™ on-line documentation is always the most current available. It cuts training time and the skill level required of the end user is greatly decreased.

SIMON™ improves productivity, customer service, parts accountability, and machine reliability.

Maintenance and machine operation procedures are now standardized across all client sites.