2.1.4 Single minute exchange of dies
SMED is one of the most desirable lean manufacturing tools used to reduce the setup time of a machine. The SMED
basically focuses on reducing setup time by converting all internal activities into external activities and simplifying internal and external activities [12]. Internal activities are those activities that need the stoppage of machine, where as external activities are those that do not need the stoppage of a machine and can be done while the machine is being used for production. SMED technique also suggests the use of one touch mechanism like one touch screw and one touch holder to reduce the setup time further. The SMED project should be implemented in four phases. In the first phase, the whole setup procedure should be analyzed. One of the popular ways is to divide the whole setup procedure into small elements. Videotaping of setup operation can be done to study the process in detail. In the second phase, the distinction is made between external and internal activities. In the third phase, effort is made to convert as many internal activities as possible to external activities. The internal activities are simplified by making design change or work methods change. To achieve the simplification in the design or method, the brain storming session is conducted with operators who get involved in regular setup activities. In the fourth phase, the new method of setup is defined and documented.