Fixtures affect Workflow

There are always eight (8) steps to Fixturing on objects. These steps exist whether you want them to or not; if you do not account for/control these steps, the process will control you instead:

1. INPUT - Introduce the workpiece into the system

2. LOCATE - Position the workpiece in 3D space, with regard to the fixture, process, & system

3. FIXTURE - Engage the workpiece with the fixture

4. CONSTRAIN - Apply necessary forces to secure the workpiece

5. OPERATION - Perform the manufacturing operation

6. RELEASE - Disengage the the workpiece from the fixture

7. OUTPUT - Remove the workpiece from the system

8. RESET - Prepare the system for the next workpiece

Properly-designed fixtures will account for and control variation within all 8 steps, rather than let the steps happen at random or without positive control

Note: Oftentimes, the Locate, Fixture, & Constrain steps happen simultaneously, but it is important to understand the slight difference between them to ensure none are ignored

Batch fixturing is easy to identify, as all operations/parts are being done identical to one another (think of a tray of baked goods all being cooked at once)

• Intuition often leads us to believe that batch fixturing is efficient because visually there is a lot being done at once.

• However, when you take a step back and holistically look at all process steps, as well as understanding the hidden downsides of batch production in comparison to one-piece-flow, things become more clear