Improving producibility in aerospace engine manufacturing : process automation vs. process reengineering

Abstract

In any aerospace manufacturing operation, including Pratt & Whitney's Compression Systems Module Center, producibility problems can be major drivers of cost. Much of the literature focuses on design for manufacturability as a solution to producibility problems. While this is a valuable approach, this study focuses on manufacturing process improvement as a solution to producibility issues. Two methods of process improvement are discussed, process automation and process reengineering. This thesis first surveys some of the major producibility problems at Pratt & Whitney's Compression Systems Module Center, as well as some of the efforts underway to address them. One of the largest issues, operator data input errors, is described in detail as a case study. Wireless gauging with automatic offset adjustment is proposed as a focused technological solution to this issue. As part of this study, funding has been obtained to implement the solution and testing has been conducted. This is an example of process automation. However, a broader process reengineering effort is also proposed. The fundamental question of why producibility problems tend to persist is also examined.