Flexible Material Handling

This program examines the strategy used in selection and operation of 4 different flexible material handling systems. These systems are designed to accommodate mass customization of production and be cost effective in operation. The Lexmark example highlights a demand-based philosophy that is capable of efficiently producing printers in a lot size of one. Chrysler also uses a demand-based Kanban system that focuses attention on the automobile assembly operator. Electrolux maintains a highly automated material handling system consisting of automated guided vehicles, an automated storage and retrieval system, and an automated conveyer system in the production of their cleaning products. Ford Motor Company selected a highly automated material handling system to move bumpers through the manufacturing and assembly process.