Automatic Time - Lean Six Sigma Glossary

Automatic time, in the context of manufacturing and production, refers to the time when a machine or equipment is running on its own, without the need for a person to be present to operate it. This is in contrast to manual time, which is the time when a person is required to be present to operate the machine or equipment.

Automatic time is often used in modern manufacturing and production environments to increase efficiency, reduce costs, and improve overall productivity. Automatic machines and equipment can run continuously, without the need for breaks or rest periods, and they can also work at a faster pace than manual machines or equipment. Additionally, automatic machines and equipment are often more accurate and consistent than manual machines or equipment, which can lead to higher quality products and fewer defects.

What is Automatic Time?

Automatic time refers to the operation of a machine or equipment without the need for a person to be present to operate it. The use of various technologies such as sensors, timers, and automated control systems makes this possible.

How Automatic Time Works

Automatic time works by using a combination of technologies to monitor and control machine and equipment operation. Machines use Sensors to detect changes in conditions. And timers and automated control systems to control the operation of the machine or equipment.

Benefits of Automatic Time

Increased Efficiency and Productivity

Automatic machines can run 24/7, without breaks or rest periods, leading to increased efficiency and productivity. They can perform tasks at a faster pace and with higher accuracy, reducing the time and effort required to complete a task.

Improved Quality

You can program Automatic machines to follow specific processes, ensuring consistent and high-quality output. They are less prone to human error and are capable of detecting and correcting any errors that may occur.

Cost Savings

Automatic machines require fewer operators and maintenance personnel, leading to lower labor costs. They also consume less energy, reducing operating costs. In addition, you can use these machines for longer periods of time, leading to increased asset utilisation and reduced capital expenditures.

Enhanced Safety

Automatic machines can operate in hazardous environments, reducing the risk of injury to human operators. They also reduce the risk of fire, explosion, and other safety hazards.

Applications of Automatic Time

Manufacturing

Automatic time has revolutionized the manufacturing industry, with machines performing tasks such as assembly, packaging, and inspection. The machines can operate around the clock, providing increased efficiency and cost savings.

Agriculture

Automatic time technology has been adopted in the agriculture industry, with machines performing tasks such as planting, harvesting, and soil preparation. The machines are capable of working in harsh environments, providing increased efficiency and cost savings.

Mining

Automatic time has been adopted in the mining industry, with machines performing tasks such as drilling, blasting, and excavation. The machines are capable of working in hazardous environments, reducing the risk of injury to human operators.

Transportation

Automatic time technology has been adopted in the transportation industry, with machines performing tasks such as cargo handling and delivery. The machines are capable of working around the clock, providing increased efficiency and cost savings.

Challenges and Limitations

High Initial Investment

Automatic machines can be expensive to purchase and install, requiring a high initial investment. This may be a barrier to adoption, particularly for smaller organizations.

Dependence on Technology

Automatic machines depend on technology, and technical issues such as software and hardware failures can impact their performance. This may lead to downtime and reduced efficiency.

Lack of Flexibility

Automatic machines are designed to perform specific tasks and may not be easily adapted to perform different tasks. This may limit their usefulness in certain situations.

Loss of Jobs

The adoption of automatic time technology may result in job losses, as it replaces human operators by machines. This may have social and economic implications, particularly in communities where employment is scarce.

Examples of Automatic Time

One example of automatic time is in a car assembly plant where you automate and control some of the machinery using computer programs. The machinery such as welding robots, painting robots, and conveyors are able to work on their own, without the need for human intervention. This eliminates the need for workers to stand by the machines and operate them manually, which increases efficiency and productivity, and reduces the risk of human error.

Another example is in a packaging line, where machines such as filling machines, capping machines, and labeling machines are all automated and controlled by computer programs. The machines are able to work on their own, without the need for human intervention, which increases efficiency and productivity, and reduces the risk of human error.

Automatic time technology has revolutionised many industries, providing increased efficiency, productivity, and cost savings. However, it also presents challenges and limitations, including high initial investment, dependence on technology, lack of flexibility, and loss of jobs. Despite these challenges, the continued development and adoption of automatic time technology is expected to bring about significant benefits in the future.

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Sachin Naik

Passionate about improving processes and systems | Lean Six Sigma practitioner, trainer and coach for 14+ years consulting giant corporations and fortune 500 companies on Operational Excellence | Start-up enthusiast | Change Management and Design Thinking student | Love to ride and drive