Production sequencing in a fifth wheel industry: Case study

Fifth wheel is a type of hitch mounted in the bed of a truck. Fifth wheel coupling provides the link between a trailer and the towing truck. Lean methodology is applied to handle production sequencing at fifth wheel industry. Due to high variation of final products and non-constant demand, there is no specific methodology to determine the quantity of production and its order. This results into overproduction and high number of inventory between welding and assembly, and also finished product. We propose a sequencing algorithm between painting and welding area that helps to reduce inventory and movements between welding and assembly. An evaluation is made on the feasibility of coordinating welding production and painting of parts in sequence. The simulation of current and future state indicates shorter lead time and lower work in process.