Karakuri IoT

Purpose and goal

The project application raised the question: “is it possible to realize IoT- based Karakuri Kaizen, in a similar way that the mechanical-based Karakuri kaizen has been supporting shop floor operations?” After completing the project, we can say - yes, it is possible for production staff to use Internet-of-Things technology quickly and easily. With the help of methodologies and materials adapted to the industry, companies can quickly create digital solutions to everyday challenges in production. Solutions developed by those affected by the problem, and therefore accepted.

Expected results and effects

The project has - enabled the development of simple low-cost automation on the production floor, carried out by production staff. - led to production staff becoming engaged, involved, and taking lead in digitalisation. - increased the staffs learning and acceptance of IoT. - provided support to start digitalisation small and bottom-up. - developed IoT card (compare with playing cards) used to discuss problems and solutions without any technical details. This results in better problem descriptions and has also facilitated work in heterogeneous groups.

Planned approach and implementation

The project has benefited greatly from the breadth of expertise that existed in the core group, such as interaction design, production research, and industrial automation and IoT Greater focus on the role of company management in clarifying, to all parties, how the project relates to the company´s digital strategy. Here, more focus could also be placed on integration in the companies´ own processes. It has been challenging to take the step from conceptual solutions to actual tests in production. Experiences and ideas from the project will be used in future projects.

External links

Hemsidan ger en introduktion till Karakuri IoT och beskriver tillvägagångssätt, metodik, och hjälpmedel.