Lean techniques impact evaluation methodology based on a co-simulation framework for manufacturing systems

ABSTRACT

Lean implementation plays a major role in optimizing productivity and reducing waste. Applying the adequate integration of Lean Techniques (LT) can ensure a higher profitable benefit. Many companies face difficulties in choosing the LT that best suit their situations to reach their objectives. In this study, we propose the simulation of specific modeled industrial contexts and check the impact of implementing LT simultaneously. Market fluctuation, demand diversification, and uncertainty of resources contexts are studied to perceive how LT behaves accordingly. Four KPIs (Key Performance Indicators) are retained for the analysis: Work in Progress, Lead-time, Production Throughput, and Defect Rate. An aeronautical company is modeled and experiments are performed to demonstrate the usefulness of a developed co-simulation framework to perceive the sensitivity of LT to some industrial contexts. The results showed that Poka Yoke and 5S are context-free LT valid in any industrial context. Pull, SMED, and Cross training are contextual and deserve careful applicability regarding the simulated context. Cross training, suitable for uncertainty of resources, does not show any significant improvements when the company was exposed to market fluctuations and demand diversification contexts.

KEYWORDS:

• Lean manufacturing
• lean tools
• co-simulation
• discrete event simulation
• KPI

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).