IMPLEMENTATION OF LEAN MANUFACTURING TOOLS IN ASSEMBLY OF SCIENTIFIC INSTRUMENTATION TO IMPROVE CONSISTENCY OF PRODUCT QUALITY, DELIVERY, AND PRODUCTIVITY

Droplet Measurement Technologies (DMT) is a company that manufactures instruments used for measuring water droplets, ice crystals, black carbon, single particles, and aerosols. Through observation, we developed lean manufacturing techniques to develop work instructions to aid in product quality, delivery, and productivity for the device Photoacoutstic Extinctiometer (PAX) 870, which measures black carbon. Scientists use PAX 870 to research and collect data for preserving Earth's atmosphere. We created step-by-step work instructions to improve previous work guidelines. Implementing lean manufacturing principles and clear, concise directions lead to increased efficiency and reliability in the building process. We designed Presentation Kits that consisted of parts and tools to assist in faster productivity. With these lean manufacturing techniques implemented, DMT will increase production in a timely manner, which streamlines the manufacturing process and research for benefiting current and future customers.