Quick Changeover (SMED)

1 Introduction

Quick Changeover is a method for rapidly and efficiently converting a process from running the current product to running the next product. Quick Changeover can, and often is, used in starting up a process and rapidly getting it to running condition with minimum waste.

2 Keys to Quick Changeover

Reducing changeover times is one way to eliminate waste and one area that contributes to a shop becoming lean. The keys to quick changeover are as follows:

1. Rethink the idea that machines can be idle, but workers cannot be idle.
2. The ideal setup change is no setup at all or within seconds.
3. Ensure that all tools are always ready and in perfect condition.
4. Blow a whistle and have a team of workers respond to each changeover.
5. Establish goals to reduce changeover times, record all changeover times and display them near the machine.
6. Distinguish between internal and external setup activities and try to convert internal to external setup.

3 Quick Changeover Application in Company

• Developers should do the code annotations more detailed, which will help other developer to familiar with the code quickly.
• Team discussion, even though some person don't do the works of the same project. I think this will help us understand company event and other people will quickly accept others' work.