A Flow-oriented Production Cell in Conditions of Low Technological-Organizational Similarity

Abstract

This paper presents the concept and methodology for the designing of a “tree-shaped” production line. The concept is a result of the search for production unit organization that meets the Lean Production assumptions, i.e. focusing on lead time (throughput time) shortening with simultaneous ability of use in conditions of varied product range. The varied product range characterized by lower technological-organizational similarity when compared to “U-shaped” units typical for Lean Production. The paper presents an algorithm for the designing of a “tree-shaped” production line and examples of its application. The designed unit underwent evaluation according to the criteria preferred by Lean Manufacturing experts. The designed production unit achieved results confirming the effectiveness of the proposed concept for the analysed sets of input data on the product range and production capacities.