Process Engineering and Continuous Inprovement

Code:

M.EM066

Acronym:

EPMC

Keywords
Classification	Keyword
OFICIAL	Management

Instance: 2023/2024 - 1S

Active?	Yes
Responsible unit:	Department of Industrial Engineering and Management
Course/CS Responsible:	Master in Mechanical Engineering

Cycles of Study/Courses

Acronym	No. of Students	Study Plan	Curricular Years	Credits UCN	Credits ECTS	Contact hours	Total Time
M.EM	36	Syllabus	2	-	4,5	39	121,5

Teaching language

English

Objectives

The aim is for the student to obtain the skills to organize, plan and implement improvement programs and projects, identifying the root causes of the problems and applying the scientific method in its resolution.

It is expected that the student will be able to apply their knowledge to complex processes and map the proposed solutions in a clear and structured way in order to ensure a successful implementation over an extended time cycle.

It is intended that the future "Production Engineer" called to integrate / conduct projects (or programs) of Process Engineering and Continuous Improvement, has the mastery of the appropriate tools to successfully execute and be an agent of change, contributing to create a culture in the company that is conducive to Continuous Improvement, essential for the company's long-term survival in the global competitive environment in which we live.

Learning outcomes and competences

The aim of this study cycle is to provide students with an integrated view of important concepts, techniques and tools of Process Improvement.

It promotes a practical inclination in the course of the CU, based on case studies and simulations, with rapid application of the concepts presented.

In addition to the quantitative approach to the problems of Continuous Improvement, qualitative aspects and the company's culture will be emphasized so that the improvement efforts will bear fruit in a sustained manner over time, and in a virtuous cycle in search of excellence and greater competitiveness in the global market.

Working method

Presencial

Pre-requirements (prior knowledge) and co-requirements (common knowledge)

Production Management.

Quality Management.

Program

1. FUNDAMENTALS OF CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT
• Kaizen tools & techniques
• Process Stability and Capability
• Introduction to SIX SIGMA
• Value stream maps and project charters

2. IMPLEMENTATION OF PROCESS IMPROVEMENT
• Pareto Analysis
• DMAIC:
• DEFINE (Gemba Walks / Spaghetti Diagrams / Stakeholder Analysis / Consensus Voting / Action Item Tracking)
• MEASURE (Process Mapping / Flow Charting / Affinity Diagram / Fishbone diagram (Cause & Effect))
• ANALYZE (Quantitative data / Criteria Selection Matrix/ Introduction to Design of Experiments (DOE) / Root cause analyses – 5 Why’s?)
• IMPROVE & CONTROL (Waste Elimination, Kaizen / Control Methods: Documentation & Control Charts / Lean Tools)

3. ORGANIZATION’S CULTURE.
• Introduction to Methods for change management
• A3 methodology and reporting method (Toyota)
• Qualitative and social aspects of the company's culture to promote continuous improvement

Mandatory literature

Maasaki Imai; Gemba Kaizen

Teaching methods and learning activities

The theoretical concepts and techniques will be transmitted using presentations at the beginning of the sessions, promoting debate and discussion of issues related to the scope of the course.

The practical application of knowledge will be promoted through exercises, case studies and problem solving.

Computers, datashow and whiteboard are used as means of support.

The cases require an articulation of the various knowledge acquired in the course and the testing of alternative solutions. The ability to work in teams is promoted.

keywords

Technological sciences > Engineering > Industrial engineering

Evaluation Type

Distributed evaluation with final exam

Assessment Components

Designation	Weight (%)
Exame	70,00
Trabalho escrito	30,00
Total:	100,00

Amount of time allocated to each course unit

Designation	Time (hours)
Estudo autónomo	42,50
Frequência das aulas	39,00
Trabalho escrito	40,00
Total:	121,50

Eligibility for exams

Not to exceed nº limit of absences.

Calculation formula of final grade

The evaluation consists of a final examination, with a weight of 70% and 3 cases proposed for evaluation (in group) throughout the semester (30%).

Classification improvement

Successful students can access the Appeal exam (weight 70%) if they wish to improve their grades.