What does Cell mean in manufacturing?
The word "cell" refers to the broader idea of cellular manufacturing, which involves organizing equipment into small sections, or cells, to encourage a continuous flow of production. Typically arranged in a U-shape, these cells are created to enhance efficiency and reduce production times at each stage. In cellular manufacturing, equipment is arranged into small groups or "cells" that focus on producing similar products or parts. Workers in these cells are cross-trained on various machines, which enhances flexibility and reduces lead times, allowing for more efficient production flows and improved responsiveness to changes in customer demand.