Deconstructing Efficiency of Mechanical Design in Bespoke Engineering

Jesic, Lee (2024) Deconstructing Efficiency of Mechanical Design in Bespoke Engineering. Doctoral thesis, Birmingham City University.

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Abstract

This research investigates production efficiency improvements in the design phase of High-Value, Low-Volume, High-Variety (HVLVHV) machinery products rather than conventional mass-produced products with a low degree of variety. Achieving efficiency improvements in HVLVHV machinery products is challenging due to these products being labour-intensive and, as a generalisation, being designed or customised specifically for each customer.

The methodological choice for this research is concurrent mixed-method research, which utilises both quantitative and qualitative methods. This research comprises two distinct yet complimentary research strategies. The first strategy is action research, and this is implemented in a single case study company. The action research strategy is chosen because the research took place in the organisation within which the researcher works.

The key findings from this research are that the framework developed from this research has proven effective in improving production efficiency in the mechanical design phase of HVLVHV machinery products. This is attributed to the following efficiency improvement propositions being incorporated into the framework: These include adopting lean design principles, standardising the mechanical design process, utilising a modular design approach, fostering collaboration, and using design automation tools. It was not viable to incorporate embedding continuous improvement in the organisational culture into the framework as this needs to be driven by senior management.

This research has extended the application of Modularisation by applying Modularisation theory to improve production efficiencies in the mechanical design phase of the product lifecycle of HVLVHV machinery products. This research has highlighted the value of Modularisation when implemented into lower volume production during the design phase and, therefore, has extended the theory on this efficiency improvement tool. The main contribution to practice is the sharing of a fit-for-purpose Strategic Design Management framework integrated into the business management system. The framework operates at a level equivalent to achieving ISO 9001 certification and the results indicate the framework is effective in improving production efficiencies in terms of time, cost, and quality during the mechanical design phase of HVLVHV machinery products.

Item Type:	Thesis (Doctoral)
Dates:	Date Event 8 November 2024 Accepted
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Design, Efficiency, Lean, Standardisation, Modularisation, Engineering, Mechanical
Subjects:	CAH10 - engineering and technology > CAH10-01 - engineering > CAH10-01-03 - production and manufacturing engineering
Divisions:	Doctoral Research College > Doctoral Theses Collection Faculty of Business, Law and Social Sciences
Depositing User:	Jaycie Carter
Date Deposited:	19 Nov 2024 10:26
Last Modified:	19 Nov 2024 10:26
URI:	https://www.open-access.bcu.ac.uk/id/eprint/15977

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