By implementing LEAN production techniques, waste reduction and productivity improvement can be achieved. However, simply knowing the principles of LEAN production is not enough. It is essential to be able to drop the guiding ideas of this production method into your own facility. This implementation process can also include automation. With an initial investment in the right systems, cost reductions and increased profits can be achieved.
What is lean automation?
The core of LEAN manufacturing is a change in thinking: instead of improving the productivity of individual processes, the big picture of improving the value customers get from products should be considered; simultaneously, the focus is also on containing and reducing costs.
This concept of ambivalent focus on customer and business costs should always be applied by integrating automation. With these two cornerstones, it is possible to automate even the smallest productions, doing it gradually by integrating lean principles into the existing structure reducing costs and lead times while automating processes gradually.
The benefits of LEAN automation in manufacturing
By choosing to integrate LEAN automation into production facilities, processes become faster and more efficient. If done correctly, adding automation can lead to multiple benefits such as:
- 1. Increased security
Worker safety should be paramount throughout the manufacturing industry. Automating hazardous processes results in greater safety and decreased errors in production. For example, an automated storage and retrieval system keeps operators out of trouble spots where accidents and forklift collisions can occur. Using such a system also reduces human errors in picking or storing products. - 2. Reduction of delivery time
Another means of using automation to benefit operations is to study solutions starting with the layout of the hall or area designated for production. With a general big picture at the outset, facilities are designed to make operator travel minimal or zero as well as ergonomic. - 3. Improved accuracy
Choosing to automate can lead to more efficient production of larger quantities at lower costs. It is also important not to focus on creating a specific model. Combining approaches and technologies to combine the best of waste reduction and maximizing cost savings. For example, automation of assembly processes can facilitate the reduction of manufacturing errors and lost time for rework. - 4. Cost reduction
Cost cutting is the greatest benefit to automation and LEAN manufacturing. By using automated systems wisely, reducing costs is automatic. One way to reduce costs without sacrificing operators’ time is to adopt robots. Robots reduce human effort and investment required while human workers can maintain the desired level of quality.
If you are considering adopting automation systems, Whitech can help you in assessing your goals and achieving them.Let’s get in touch today for a specific assessment.
