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The
Newsletter of Lean Manufacturing Strategy
28 November 2006
www.strategosinc.com
Mixed Model Production
An Under-Appreciated Element of
Lean
Mixed Model Production assembles
multiple product versions, intermixed
on the same line and without changeovers.
The objective is to
reduce variability on upstream work centers or suppliers.
It also reduces inventory, improves kanban and eliminates line
changeovers.
While the Lean literature mentions Mixed
Model Assembly, the concept is often overlooked in practice. There are
several reasons for this:
1) The technique does not
always apply.
2) The benefits of reduced
variability are often unappreciated.
3) The Toyota approach
(usually described) is peculiar to automotive.
4) Many firms focus on Final
Assembly and view Fabrication or Suppliers as independent entities.
Our new pages on
Mixed Model
Production explore the original Toyota-type line as well as
some alternatives. The pages can help with
Value Stream Mapping,
Group
Technology,
Cellular Manufacturing or
Plant
Layout. I hope you find the information useful.
Regards & Happy Holidays,
Quarterman
Lee
qlee@strategosinc.com
You
may forward Lean Briefing to colleagues or use it in your publication.
Please do so in its entirety.
(c)2004 Strategos, Inc.
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