Andon is one of the most common tools used in lean manufacturing. This guide will teach you everything you need to know about Andon lights in lean manufacturing.
What is an Andon?
An Andon is a device that is used in lean manufacturing to stop the line. It is a system that helps managers, maintenance workers, and other employees know about quality problems in the production line. These systems can help to ensure that problems are quickly identified and corrected.
“Andon” is a Japanese word that means paper lantern. The system uses lights, signals, and displays to provide real-time information about the status of the production process, such as machine downtime, production rates, and quality issues.
What is Lean Manufacturing?
Lean Manufacturing is a manufacturing philosophy that revolves around the implementation of systems and tools that reduce waste and improve the efficiency and quality of a product.
History of the Andon
The Andon was first developed in the 1950s by a Japanese engineer named Taiichi Ohno. The Andon is often used in conjunction with other manufacturing systems, such as the Kanban system, to improve the flow of products through a manufacturing process.
What is the Purpose of an Andon in Lean Manufacturing?
The purpose of an Andon in lean manufacturing is to stop the line and minimize the waste that is produced in the process.
An Andon system allows employees at all levels of the organization to see the current status of the production process and to take action when necessary. By making this information visible, it allows employees to quickly identify and address problems as they arise, which helps to reduce downtime, improve quality and productivity.
How Does an Andon Work in Lean Manufacturing?
When an Andon is activated, it causes the line to stop immediately. This stops the production process and helps to minimize the waste that is produced.
It allows communication and collaboration among employees by enabling them to share information, identify and resolve problems in real-time, and make decisions quickly. This can increase the efficiency of the production process, reduce downtime, and improve the overall performance of the organization.
Conclusion
An Andon is a system that is used in Lean Manufacturing to improve the flow of products through a manufacturing process.
