Source Energy Company is shaping the future of space exploration with reliable, abundant, economical energy solutions. The company’s affordable solar arrays are creating a new model for space power, delivering on a promise to provide low-cost energy with high availability. By leveraging terrestrial technologies, Source is enabling incredible strides in the space industry with revolutionary power solutions that are crucial for industrialization.
Before implementing ION, Source was facing numerous challenges in streamlining its manufacturing process. The company’s leadership knew they needed an advanced manufacturing execution system (MES) in order to ensure reliability and traceability — while keeping track of procedures.
Traditional manual methods and paper-based systems didn’t work for Source’s innovative needs. These antiquated methods were broken and inefficient, leaving too much room for error and risk. Simply put, they didn’t bode well for developing complex assemblies. In order to address issues, engineers would have to comb through thousands of documents page by page, and update thick binders with design changes. The entire process would have posed significant challenges for Source.
ION’s intuitive interface and integrated features now provide the necessary framework for optimal efficiency and quick decision-making. Everything Source needs is located in one place, tracked, and accessible with the click of a button. This advanced approach has brought new synergy to Source’s manufacturing process by removing redundant workflows and improving reliability and traceability.
“Not only does it make life easier, it’s leaving less room for error, making everything a lot quicker, and freeing up more time to do other things (which is important because there is never enough time).” ~ Kevin Samrick, VP of Reliability
ION’s real-time analytics and customizable tracking allow the company to build and develop its products faster — giving Source a sizable competitive edge. Overall, the system has enabled proficient multi-tasking and data-driven decisions, shaving off months of production time.
Since adopting ION, Source has reduced its margins of error, automated tasks, and removed guesswork involved with estimating costs. The system integrates seamlessly with adjacent software, and has required very little training to use. Onboarding Source employees took less than a week to get up and running on ION.
"Having everything in one place enables us to move swiftly and pivot effortlessly, make design changes seamlessly, and be the fastest to market – which has been immensely beneficial for us."~ Kevin Samrick, VP of Reliability
Looking ahead, the company envisions ION playing a pivotal role in its work to support space-based factories and sustainable energy solutions. Thanks to Source's abundance of affordable energy—empowered by its partnership with First Resonance—the possibilities for space innovation are now endless.
By implementing ION into its manufacturing workflow, Source is able to unlock new frontiers in space exploration and industrialization. Thanks to a fully-integrated, modern MES, the company is positioned to outpace its competitors and surpass industry standards.