For the development and optimization of the success rate of flexible electronics prototypes, Holst Centre/TNO has been using a Lean Six Sigma tool.
As the production of prototypes is quite expensive, it is important to optimize the success ratio. Auke Jisk Kronemeijer, Senior Researcher at Holst Centre/TNO, had one specific objective: he wanted to increase the production yield and to reduce the costs that low-quality prototypes entailed. Half of the prototypes should meet the requirements. This objective is being expressed in the figure 0.5. This means that half of the prototypes must meet the requirements.
Auke used a Lean Six Sigma tool: the Failure Mode and Effect Analysis (FMEA). This analysis tool makes it possible to map the various risks of a process.
After the completion of the project, the goal turned out to be more than achieved. The intended 0.5 was even surpassed and ended up at 0.62. Instead of half, no less than 62% of the prototypes turned out to be satisfactory.
This brings flexlines another step closer to its goal.
Read more in this full article (Dutch text)
