Abstract

This study explores the effects of incorporating an additional automated cutting tool into injection molding machines to optimize manufacturing processes. A comparative analysis of production data collected over the period of two months from July (prior to the modification) and August (post-modification) reveals significant enhancements in efficiency and output. Initially, the total production time per frame was 34 seconds, which included 25 seconds for molding and 9 seconds for hand cutting. This meant that a maximum of 856 frames (or 13,786 string cords) could be produced each day. The manufacturing process integrated a major change with the addition of the automated cutting tool. A 36% increase in manufacturing efficiency was achieved with the automated cutting tool, which shortened the frame production time to 25 seconds and increased output to 1,153 frames (18,432 string cords). Key findings indicate that elimination of manual cutting contributes to greater consistency in product quality and reliability in operational performance while also saving time and money on labor. This research underscores the importance of process automation in modern manufacturing and the strategic application of additional cutting tools, showcasing the advancements not only improve output but also contribute to sustainable manufacturing practices by maximizing resource efficiency.This study explores the effects of incorporating an additional automated cutting tool into injection molding machines to optimize manufacturing processes. A comparative analysis of production data collected over the period of two months from July (prior to the modification) and August (post-modification) reveals significant enhancements in efficiency and output. Initially, the total production time per frame was 34 seconds, which included 25 seconds for molding and 9 seconds for hand cutting. This meant that a maximum of 856 frames (or 13,786 string cords) could be produced each day. The manufacturing process integrated a major change with the addition of the automated cutting tool. A 36% increase in manufacturing efficiency was achieved with the automated cutting tool, which shortened the frame production time to 25 seconds and increased output to 1,153 frames (18,432 string cords). Key findings indicate that elimination of manual cutting contributes to greater consistency in product quality and reliability in operational performance while also saving time and money on labor. This research underscores the importance of process automation in modern manufacturing and the strategic application of additional cutting tools, showcasing the advancements not only improve output but also contribute to sustainable manufacturing practices by maximizing resource efficiency.This study explores the effects of incorporating an additional automated cutting tool into injection molding machines to optimize manufacturing processes. A comparative analysis of production data collected over the period of two months from July (prior to the modification) and August (post-modification) reveals significant enhancements in efficiency and output. Initially, the total production time per frame was 34 seconds, which included 25 seconds for molding and 9 seconds for hand cutting. This meant that a maximum of 856 frames (or 13,786 string cords) could be produced each day. The manufacturing process integrated a major change with the addition of the automated cutting tool. A 36% increase in manufacturing efficiency was achieved with the automated cutting tool, which shortened the frame production time to 25 seconds and increased output to 1,153 frames (18,432 string cords). Key findings indicate that elimination of manual cutting contributes to greater consistency in product quality and reliability in operational performance while also saving time and money on labor. This research underscores the importance of process automation in modern manufacturing and the strategic application of additional cutting tools, showcasing the advancements not only improve output but also contribute to sustainable manufacturing practices by maximizing resource efficiency.