The 25-Year Evolution of PlanToys Machinery Automation with Rerng-rit Datsong, Manager and Developer of Automation Systems.
“90% of the machinery on the production line has been brought to life through the dedicated efforts of the Automation department. Finding machinery that seamlessly fits PlanToys’ unique design requirements has proven challenging. Our meticulous approach to design sets us apart, and as we continue to experiment and innovate, I am deeply moved by the results we achieve.”
The journey from Yamaha's maintenance department to PlanToys' automated engineering unit.
"I was responsible for controlling and developing old machinery into new systems at Yamaha, helping me develop my skills to the point where it becomes expertise. However, after working there for several years, I wanted to return to my hometown in Phatthalung province. I looked for a job near my hometown or in the south of Thailand, and since PlanToys is a leading company I wanted to work for, I decided to move to Trang province.
Moving here allowed me to reduce the cost of living for myself and my family, and it provided an opportunity to continue my family's agricultural, such as rubber and palm oil cultivation, alongside working at PlanToys. This also allowed me to have an additional source of income."
The new journey has begun.
"When I started working at PlanToys, I began my journey in the engineering department, where I worked on developing automated systems. It was only a short time before Vitool, the founder of PlanToys, noticed the results of my work and encouraged me to develop the automation aspect further. This led to the establishment of a full-fledged Automation unit within the company.
This was an opportunity to enhance my capabilities because I wanted to contribute to the ongoing growth and sustainability of the organization. My goal was to ensure that our unit continued to develop and thrive, which it has successfully done up to the present day.
The primary focus of working here is to be open to listening to others' opinions, maintaining an open mind, thinking outside the box, and fostering effective communication, especially when challenges arise. Encouraging colleagues to express their thoughts and ideas freely is essential because different people may have varying technological perspectives and expertise."
The challenge of integrating automation into the organization's workflow
"When we integrate machinery into our work, we must also teach them to work harmoniously with the system. Sometimes, it can be challenging to communicate how to bridge the gap in technical understanding and ensure that everyone can collaborate effectively.
When we face limitations with human resources, we must find ways to address the issue through adjustments in machinery. This involves minimizing the need for human intervention to control operations to prevent potential damage. Simultaneously, we need to continuously inspect and evaluate our operations to identify areas for improvement and development.
Integrating automation into the organization's workflow may involve cutting-edge technologies. It's important not to be discouraged by what might seem difficult, as nothing is more challenging than our determination and effort. If we encounter obstacles, we can learn from the issues we face. The most challenging aspect of development is not taking the first step."