Digital Lean Manufacturing - Collaborative University-Industry Education in Systems Design for Lean Transformation

There are several examples of successful lean practice in manufacturing and service to reduce cost, achieve quality and increase competitiveness; however, some companies still fail to adopt lean practice. The lean practice is not only about implementing lean tools, but also developing people and transforming company culture. Facing a declining manufacturing competitiveness, Thailand needs lean manufacturing and lean automation to regain competitiveness. This paper presents Digital Lean Manufacturing, a one-semester course based on project-based learning (PBL) designed by university and industry under SIIT-DENSO collaboration. It focuses on adopting Japanese-style lean manufacturing culture and digital engineering to empower students with high-tech T-shaped skills. Using exercises in Lego car assembly, the course develops both cognitive and non-cognitive skills in lean manufacturing.