Track: Transportation

Abstract

This study outlines the investigation and identification of existing loading time of pallets having pack-rite of detergent is done with the aim of making recommendations for optimizing the loading time. For this purpose, method study technique and Lean manufacturing tools are used. The study is based on a fast moving consumer goods (FMCG) industry. Initially the project work started with observing the existing process of loading pallets and examined through method study technique. Loading process was observed and keenly revised in order to suggest optimal loading time. Also layout of the area where the loading process is done was developed for the purpose of easy understanding of problems and recommendation for completing the loading cycle in optimal time. The significance of this research indicates that very little research have been done in this area, where as 5S, Value Stream Mapping (VSM), Single Minute Exchange of Dies (SMED) philosophies are used for designing a loading area and suggesting a procedure of desired activity  instead of a manufacturing problem solution. The main achievement is development of Suggested Operating Procedure (SOP) for making the loading activity a type of standard. At the end of paper suggestions are made for future developments.

Keywords—Optimization, Lean tools, Layout, Suggested Operating Procedure.