During the rotation of assembly line production, appropriate measures must be taken when changing product types to minimize the loss associated with the change. In the plan to reduce losses from product change, when it is necessary to change the product type, a method that is time-consuming and labor-intensive should be adopted. There are two methods of change: simultaneous change and sequential change. For assembly line equipment that frequently experiences changes, it should be possible to make adjustments during rest periods or after work hours. This must be noted in the plan.
The method of sequence change is currently being implemented without interrupting the production line. When the product immediately following the one currently in production has completed 1 process, the changed product is immediately introduced into the line. Simultaneously, the method involves interrupting the production line at the same time to make changes to all processes at once. This approach is particularly effective when semi-finished products can serve as reserves for various processes, allowing for immediate application, and when there is a distinct rhythm between the product and the upcoming product to be launched. It is also commonly used for products with fewer process steps, shorter total operation times (smaller items), or simpler changes, where the time required for the variety change is relatively short.
