Optimizing calibration processes in automotive component manufacturing

Abstract

High-precision calibration of inertial measurement units for automotive safety systems combines fixed automated chamber cycles with semi-manual loading, alignment, and transfer. Motion waste and ergonomic constraints can therefore dominate throughput and cycle time stability. This study redesigns a production calibration workstation using time-and-motion analysis, operator observation, and structured root-cause analysis based on the Ishikawa diagram and the five whys. Three interventions were implemented and validated with pre- and post-measurements: bundled handling that consolidates full-set transfers and reduces non-value-adding motions; a fixture and material handling redesign with a manual lifting aid to reduce physical load and enable reliable single-operator operation; and a modular workstation layout that supports the phased addition of chambers. Total cycle time decreased from 4475 s to 1230 s, a 72 percent reduction, and weekly output rose from 800 to 4500 units without additional staffing or significant automation investment. Overall equipment efficiency improved from 75.3 percent to 85.2 percent, while the quality rate remained at 98.8 percent.