QR Codes for Manufacturing: Work Instructions, Travellers, and MES Integration

1. The Traveller

A manufacturing traveller is a document that travels with a part through production. A QR code printed on the traveller links to the job record in the MES (Manufacturing Execution System), giving operators instant access to the latest work instruction revision.

2. Station Codes

Fixed QR codes at each station link to the station's current work instruction and calibration records. When instructions change, update the target page; the printed code stays valid.

3. Part Serialisation

A QR code on each part encodes its serial number. Scanning at each operation records the timestamp, operator, and pass/fail result, building a complete production history.

4. DPM on Metal

For metal parts that go through heat treatment or other harsh processes, use direct part marking, not labels. See the direct part marking article for method choices.