Digital Lean Manufacturing - Collaborative University-Industry Education in Systems Design for Lean Transformation
Morrakot Raweewan, Fumio Kojima
Abstract
There are several examples of successful lean practice in manufacturing and service to reduce cost, achieve quality and increase competitiveness; however, some companies still fail to adopt lean practice. The lean practice is not only about implementing lean tools, but also developing people and transforming company culture. Facing a declining manufacturing competitiveness, Thailand needs lean manufacturing and lean automation to regain competitiveness. This paper presents Digital Lean Manufacturing, a one-semester course based on project-based learning (PBL) designed by university and industry under SIIT-DENSO collaboration. It focuses on adopting Japanese-style lean manufacturing culture and digital engineering to empower students with high-tech T-shaped skills. Using exercises in Lego car assembly, the course develops both cognitive and non-cognitive skills in lean manufacturing.