SMED Methode

SMED stands for Single Minute Exchange of Dies and was invented by the Japanese Shigeo Shingo, an industrial engineer at Toyota. The SMED method aims for a fast and efficient way to convert during a production process. Converting is the collection of activities that is required to switch from a current production order to a new production order. The SMED method says that every conversion should take less than 10 minutes.

THE SMED ROADMAP

The SMED roadmap to reduce a system’s conversion time consists of 7 steps:

• The current process must be assessed critically. For example, you could make a film where you take an analytical look at the process, through the eyes of the 7 Wastes.
• A distinction should be made between the “externals” and “internals”. An external is something that can be prepared beforehand and an internal can only be performed when the production line is at a standstill;
• Convert as many internals to externals as possible. For example, you can warm up the machine parts at the same time as the production lines;
• Streamline the remaining internals, so they go faster and produce less waste. For example, you could use faster tools and less bolts;
• Streamline the externals, so it takes less time during the preparation;
• Document the new procedure and create a clear and comprehensive script. This way you can look at what needs to be done in the future;
• Then repeat all the steps again. Because there are always new things that can be done faster;

CONVERT-FRIENDLY DESIGNS ACCORDING TO THE SMED METHOD?

Converter-friendly design is very important for efficiency during a SMED project. For example, by standardizing sizes, there will be a minimum need for conversion when switching series. You could also pay attention to the sequence of groups: if in a dairy factory the plain yoghurt is manufactured first, and the strawberry yoghurt second, then the lines wouldn’t need to be rinsed out in between.