Best Practices of Just-in-Time 4.0: Multi Case Study Analysis

The purpose of this paper is to develop a better understanding of how I4.0 technologies can enhance lean practices for just-in-time manufacturing. The relationship between Lean practices and I4.0 technologies has been researched in the last years, but it is still not clear how technology can improve or alter lean practices. The results of this paper is based on a literature review. Existing research only provide superficial rankings of the match between lean practices and I4.0 technologies, and do not sufficiently describe how the technology can be applied to create innovative lean practices. Nine types of I4.0 technologies are evaluated: Sensors & Actuators, Cloud computing, Big Data & Data Analytics, Integrative Technologies Assistive Technologies, Decision Support Systems Advanced Algorithm, Additive Manufacturing and Advances Vehicles. Technology-based enhancements of lean practices within three important sub-categories of just-in-time (Continuous flow, Pull and SMED) are suggested.