Process workflow optimization and redesign for packaging line at a medical device company
Abstract
This document describes the process of
workflow optimization and redesign using Lean Six
Sigma tools to better understand the Ivers Lee
packaging lines (IL#1 and IL#2) issues and create
alternatives to improve them. This is the case of two
(2) packaging machines that were built in the 1960’s
and are currently packaging approximately seventythree (73) million surgical blades per year. This is a
manual filling, packaging and labeling process that
implicates significant intensive labor tasks. This
area currently faces several challenges. The main
challenge is to increase the labor usage while
balancing operator tasks. As project goals, these
include increasing process consistency, improving
capacity and utilization of resources to optimize
production and maximize efficiency.
Key Terms Lean Six Sigma, Line Balancing,
Time Studies, Work Improvement.