Reconfigurable production system design – theoretical and practical challenges

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore theoretical and practical challenges to achieve reconfigurable production system designs.

Design/methodology/approach

The empirical material of this paper includes a multiple-case study with an embedded design (Yin) including four cases, where each case represents a production system design project. The consideration of reconfigurability and its characteristics in the production system design projects was studied. To enhance validity, two real-time studies were combined with two retrospective studies (Leonard-Barton).

Findings

For more than a decade foresight reports have pointed out the need for responsiveness to change through reconfigurability in production system design. In order to achieve reconfigurable production systems, three challenges were identified: to use a structured design methodology, to gain knowledge in reconfigurability and its characteristics, and to include the reconfigurability knowledge in a structured design methodology. Still there is no comprehensive support available for reconfigurability in the production system design process.

Research limitations/implications

Limitations are mostly related to the chosen methodology approach, and additional empirical studies to establish generic results are required.

Practical implications

By combining knowledge from the production system design field with the reconfigurable manufacturing system field a potential of meeting identified challenges is pointed out.

Originality/value

This paper adds to current knowledge by pointing out three main challenges to achieving reconfigurable production systems. The paper also contributes with ideas on how to respond to these challenges.

Citation

Rösiö, C. and Säfsten, K. (2013), "Reconfigurable production system design – theoretical and practical challenges", Journal of Manufacturing Technology Management, Vol. 24 No. 7, pp. 998-1018. https://doi.org/10.1108/JMTM-02-2012-0021