SINGLE MINUTE EXCHANGE OF DIES ( SMED )

SINGLE MINUTE EXCHANGE OF DIES ( SMED )

The concept of SMED Single Minute Exchange of Dies (change of a tool or part in minutes ) is a technique for changing the parts or tools of a machine in the shortest possible time to minimize the set- up of the machine.

SMED or Quick Change , as it is also known , is minimize the operations that do not add value and reduce set-up time . This concept introduces the general idea that any change in machine or initialization process should take no more than 10 minutes . In an ideal case , the tool should be changed by pressing a button and in less than a minute. An example of SMED are rapid changes in race car tires of a Formula 1 .

Several companies have reduced changeover times from hours to minutes . The SMED methodology involves the application of three fundamental steps :

1. Internal operations and external : internal tasks are those activities for which their realization is necessary to stop the machine , otherwise regarding external tasks .

Two . Convert as possible internal preparation external preparation : what is sought is to do all that can be externally so that internal tasks are reduced .

Three . Reduce internal operating time : there are internal tasks that can not be converted to external but can be improved in terms of processing time . Many companies include in their daily work SMED , because consumers want a variety of products with required quality and fast delivery time .

Among the benefits of this technique is that it helps to have greater manufacturing flexibility , reduced inventory and costs. The goal is to transform into a systematic event process , leaving nothing to chance, and enabling any operator to make a change in the absence of the expert.

Dr. Shigeo Shingo is the creator of the SMED methodology , also is considered the world's leading experts in improving manufacturing processes and is also known as "Dr. improvement " in Japan. SMED addition , the introduced fault prevention system Poka -Yoke and was one of the developers of the JIT production system ¨ ¨ . The SMED system is a simple process that can help to make any kind of job. What is required is to have an open mind free from prejudice and preconceptions .

The above point is discussed in the beginning of the book of Dr. Shingo . It is stated that many people still think your type of manufacturing is "different" and that the principles enunciated by Dr. Shingo not apply to them. Dr. Shingo declares that this thinking is wrong and that the principles apply to any context.

The message of Dr. Shingo is knowing the process with which we are involved , is to understand why we do it. Some of the reasons that Dr. Shingo exposed as needs to apply the technique are:

a) " Managers who are responsible for their production must recognize that the appropriate strategy is to do what it can be sold , SMED makes it possible to respond to fluctuations in demand , and create the conditions necessary to

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