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The FLM_FILTER_CRITERIA table in Oracle E-Business Suite (EBS) versions 12.1.1 and 12.2.2 is a critical data structure within the Flow Manufacturing module, specifically designed to store filter criteria used in various manufacturing processes. This table plays a pivotal role in defining and managing filtering rules that influence production scheduling, material flow, and work order prioritization. Below is a detailed analysis of its purpose, structure, and functional significance in Oracle EBS.

Purpose and Functional Context

The FLM_FILTER_CRITERIA table is part of Oracle's Flow Manufacturing solution, which is an advanced manufacturing execution system (MES) designed to streamline production processes. It stores user-defined or system-generated filter criteria that determine how work orders, materials, or resources are selected, grouped, or prioritized in manufacturing workflows. These filters are often applied in Kanban replenishment, line balancing, and scheduling algorithms to optimize production efficiency.

Table Structure and Key Columns

The table consists of several columns, each serving a specific purpose in the filtering mechanism. Key columns include:
  • FILTER_ID: A unique identifier for each filter criterion record.
  • FILTER_NAME: A descriptive name for the filter, often used in user interfaces.
  • FILTER_TYPE: Specifies the type of filter (e.g., material, resource, or order-based).
  • ATTRIBUTE_NAME: The attribute being filtered (e.g., item category, priority, or due date).
  • OPERATOR: The logical operator used in the filter condition (e.g., "=", ">", "<", "IN").
  • VALUE: The value against which the attribute is compared.
  • ENABLED_FLAG: A Boolean flag indicating whether the filter is active.
  • CREATION_DATE and LAST_UPDATE_DATE: Audit columns tracking record creation and modification.

Integration with Oracle EBS Modules

The FLM_FILTER_CRITERIA table interacts with several Oracle EBS modules, including:
  • Inventory Management: Filters may restrict material availability or prioritize certain items.
  • Work in Process (WIP): Filters influence work order selection and scheduling.
  • Advanced Supply Chain Planning (ASCP): Criteria from this table may feed into planning algorithms.

Technical Implementation and Customization

In Oracle EBS 12.1.1 and 12.2.2, the table is typically accessed via PL/SQL APIs or through the Oracle Flow Manufacturing user interface. Customizations often involve extending filter logic by adding new attributes or modifying existing criteria. However, direct DML operations on this table are discouraged; instead, Oracle-provided APIs should be used to ensure data integrity.

Performance Considerations

Given its role in real-time manufacturing decisions, the FLM_FILTER_CRITERIA table must be optimized for performance. Indexes on FILTER_ID and frequently queried columns are recommended. In high-volume environments, partitioning may be considered for large datasets.

Conclusion

The FLM_FILTER_CRITERIA table is a foundational component of Oracle's Flow Manufacturing solution, enabling precise control over production processes. Its structured approach to filtering ensures that manufacturing operations can be tailored to meet specific business requirements while maintaining system performance and data integrity. Understanding this table's design and functionality is essential for consultants and implementers working with Oracle EBS manufacturing modules.