A flexible assembly system for low volume and high diversity production

[摘要] (cont.) Subsequently, technicians drive these carts to generic workbenches and start assembly. Using generic, standardized workbenches rather than dedicated workbenches boosts flexibility and efficiency. Parts for the final assembly would be kitted for each machine by material handlers on movable racks. This allows building any type of machine in any area of the production floor. A block system is proposed to decouple assembly of different machines and to enable easy management of assembly operations. A floor layout based on these ideas is developed. Finally, a pilot proposal is developed to serve as a stepping stone towards full scale implementation and this proposal is in part physically implemented.

[发布机构] Massachusetts Institute of Technology