ABSTRACT
The goal of this project was to apply Lean manufacturing techniques in a rapid prototyping laboratory. Lean manufacturing focuses on eliminating waste and improving flow using techniques such as value stream mapping (VSM), standard work, 5S housekeeping, single-minute exchange of dies (SMED), and visual management. The ultimate goal of this project was to achieve smooth flow in the rapid prototyping laboratory through the implementation of 5S housekeeping principles and implementation of the future state created in the VSM exercise. VSM allowed the identification of gaps between where the laboratory was and where it was expected it to be. The current and future state maps developed in the VSM exercise allowed the creation of a roadmap for implementing process improvements. To sustain the program, a 5S checklist was developed and commissioned, which is being presently utilized to maintain the future state achieved.
