Case Study: Reducing Assembly Cycle Time by 32 percent
A recent production program required a 30% increase in throughput without additional floor space. Our cross-functional team conducted a time-and-motion study, mapped the existing cell layout, and identified non-value steps. We redesigned the fixturing to reduce part handling, introduced a kitting stage that pre-assembled components, and adjusted the sequence of operations for fewer tool changes. The pilot confirmed reduced manual movements and a lower average cycle time. Quality checks were integrated earlier in the flow to catch defects before downstream assembly. The result was a 32 percent reduction in assembly cycle time, an increase in first-pass yield, and improved operator ergonomics. The post-launch period included SPC monitoring and minor balancing to maintain capability as volumes ramped. The full write-up includes measured before-and-after cycle-times, fixture drawings, and inspection checkpoints available on request.