298.6.4 - Creative Engineering Lab (CEL)

Product Fixtures & Workflow

Fixtures are devices that do three things:
- Locates part(s) precisely, accurately, & consistently in 3-Dimensional Space
- Secures part(s) so they cannot move from its location in 3-Dimensional Space
- Supports part(s) against forces acting upon them (typically due to manufacturing processes/operations)
All three of these functions are essential to a proper fixture. Something that does not accomplish these three functions is not a fixture, and is likely something else...
- Clamps are devices that perform one or two functions of a fixture. Clamps always 2) Secure; and sometimes, 3) Support parts, but do not 1) Locate parts
  - Clamps are still useful and often are an integral part of fixtures, but by themselves are lacking
  - Common examples of clamps include, but are not limited to: "Letter" Clamps ("C"-Clamps, "F"-Clamps, etc.), Vises (Bench vises, Machinist vises, etc.), Toggle clamps
- Jigs are devices that position and guide a tool against a part, typically to assist in manufacturing processes/operations
  - Jigs are not fixtures as they do not perform the 3 primary functions of fixtures, since instead of locating/securing/supporting a part, they instead do those things to tooling
    - However, jigs can be incredibly useful and are often used in conjunction with fixtures to make manufacturing processes/operations even more efficient/precise

A Workflow is a defined sequence of tasks that produce a final outcome.
- It can be seen as a roadmap for getting a particular job done, typically organized in a systematic, often chronological order.
- Workflows are employed in various contexts, from business processes, software development, and manufacturing operations, to manage and guide the activities needed to achieve a specific goal.
At a very high level, all workflows - regardless of the type of work being done - can be categorized performed one of two ways:
- Batch/Batching, where workflow steps are completed for multiple quantity (>1, AKA a "batch") of product/service at once
- One-Piece-Flow, where workflow steps are completed for single quantity (1) of product/service at once
For several reasons, one-piece flow is the superior method of executing workflows:
- - Right-Sizing: It reduces the overall equipment size and capacity requirements to the bare minimum, allowing for optimal right-sizing of equipment and production processes. This means that the resources are matched more closely to the actual demand, leading to cost savings.
  - Waste Reduction: It reduces Lean wastes of overproduction, inventory, waiting, and more
  - Fast First Part Completion: The first fully-completed product is produced in the minimum time possible, enabling quicker response to customer orders and market demands. This not only enhances customer satisfaction but can also provide a competitive advantage in terms of lead time.

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