A case study: SMED & JIT methodologies to develop continuous flow of stamped parts into AC disconnect assembly line in Schneider Electric Tlaxcala Plant.

Abstract

The competitiveness in the globalized environment highlights the importance of becoming more efficient in the execution of the company's operative and administrative processes in order to improve the level of customer service, delivery times, quality of products or services, as well as to optimize resources. The great advantage of implementing integrated logistics activities as a strategy to achieve this is undeniable. This paper, therefore, presents the methodology and the benefits obtained, which, with properly forecasted demand, aggregate planning methodology and the synchronization of some lean manufacturing techniques using tools like JIT (Just In Time) and SMED (Single Minute Exchange of Die), make the enterprise more competitive in delivery lead time, improve customer service level and reduce inventory. This case study involved some functional areas like Demand Planning, Materials Planning, the Manufacturing and Production Departments and the Warehouse Area. The principal objective of this research is to create a continuous flow of the stamped parts, from the Stamped Area to the final Assembly Line; in order to avoid sending the materials to the warehouse as currently happens.