Application of Lean Six Sigma Methodology to Optimize Fixation Device Assembly Line in the Medical Devices Industry

Abstract

The research project was focused in the line optimization of a Fixation Device assembly line in a Medical Devices Industry. The Fixation Device is called ProTack™. The Covidien Company is the manufacturer located in Ponce, Puerto Rico. The medical device has application in endoscopic surgery procedures for fixation of prosthetic material and approximation of tissue for various surgical specialties, such as repair of hernia defects. The Ponce facility of Covidien has identified improvement areas within the assembly process of ProTack™. The Lean Six Sigma (LSS) Philosophy was used to identify Non-Value Added (NVA) activities in order to be eliminated or reduced. The implementation of Lean Six Sigma Philosophy results were line output was optimized as per customer requirements, labor costs were reduced and line performance improved. This research demonstrates that the Lean Six Sigma Philosophy is a robust methodology for continuous improvement and optimization. Key Terms - Lean Manufacturing, Process Optimization, Six Sigma, U-shape Manufacturing Cell.