自動計測制御システム FAMS-R6

The FAMS series, including the FAMS-R6, is a system for measuring and testing various products centered around automobiles. When purchasing a car, one often considers catalog values such as fuel efficiency and emissions, and the FAMS series plays a role in quantifying all such performances and controlling product behavior according to test conditions. Our company began sales in 1984, and the FAMS-R6 is the sixth generation of products. The FAMS series has contributed to performance improvement and reduction of development time in the automotive industry in over ten countries worldwide.

The main market is the automotive industry, but it is also active in sectors such as agricultural machinery, construction machinery, and shipbuilding. The FAMS series is based on a common platform, allowing for the addition of various functions, so it can be customized with the necessary features according to the industry and products.

Until now, the focus has been primarily on internal combustion engines, but in recent years, with the rise of HEVs and BEVs, there has been an increasing demand for features that support motor measurement. Even after purchase, additional functionalities can be added, making it possible to upgrade existing equipment dedicated to internal combustion engines to also accommodate motors.

By consolidating the units compared to the previous model, the body has become more compact, and the elimination of communication between units has increased processing speed. We also placed significant emphasis on user-friendliness, putting considerable effort into the UI. We aimed to reduce operational steps to minimize actions with just one click, thereby shortening operation time. Additionally, we fully incorporated the opinions of the younger, digitally native generation who are accustomed to using smartphones regarding screen layout and visibility. As a result, we believe we have created a product that is easy to handle even for newcomers and less experienced young employees.

Since the usability has changed from the previous model, some customers who have used the old product extensively may initially find it difficult to use. However, in reality, the usability has definitely improved, and I believe that as they get used to it, they will increasingly feel the benefits.

Yes, I have also placed a strong emphasis on branding, so I collaborated with the design team to create designs that embody the 'Ono Sokki FAMS brand.' Furthermore, by adding the FAMS-R6 Lite to our lineup, which is optimized for functionality and offered at a more accessible price point compared to conventional products, we are making efforts to better serve a larger number of customers.

Since I have been engaged in product development in the measurement instrument segment for a long time, this was my first time being responsible for custom testing equipment like the FAMS series. When the development of this product began, I raised my hand, hoping to leverage my development experience, but I struggled with limited product knowledge and had to build connections with stakeholders from scratch. However, it became a good opportunity for technical transfer and talent development as I was able to work together while teaching younger members about the development process and the purpose of the tests.

As the project manager, it was challenging to take the lead while coordinating various internal adjustments, given the large scale of the development that spanned multiple organizations. Additionally, it was necessary to weigh various factors such as the desired specifications against technical challenges, budget constraints, and timelines, and due to the project's size, it was particularly difficult to prioritize these elements.

The FAMS series has been on sale for over 30 years, so it has been difficult to incorporate all the features developed so far, and the selection process has also been quite challenging.

The base platform as a product has been completed, but I believe further refinement is necessary to aim for greater heights. Moving forward, I would like to continue working on adding and improving features that can provide joy to our customers.

I believe there are small issues that only our company, having worked on this for many years, can notice. It would be great if we could reflect that in our products and create something that only we can make.

Yes, that's right. I hope to continue development in the future while sharing the knowledge gained this time with the team.

I have moved from a development role to a team responsible for customer sites, so I want to first learn about the actual customer environments, and in the next development phase, I want to become someone who can set clear goals and lead the team.