A simulation-based lean production approach at a low-volume parts manufacturer with part combining

Lean Production approach provides a framework to limit source of variability and to improve performance of production systems. If production units characterized by low-volume and part combining are considered, lean approach has to be tuned in order to provide the correct limitation of work-in-progress and the suitable sequencing of parts. In such a case, a discrete event simulation study is necessary to illustrate the control-element operations and indicate the applicability of the elements. A case study in the field of earth-moving machine is considered. A simulation study proved that the implementation of lean elements lead to a significant performance improvement.