A Pilot Study Evaluating Offsite Manufacturing of Timber Frame Panels Using Lean Manufacturing Principles for Dwellings

V. Moorhouse*, J. R. Littlewood, E. Hale

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

1 Citation (Scopus)

Abstract

This paper discusses a pilot study to evaluate the manufacturing process of an offsite manufactured (OSM) timber frame (TF) modern methods of construction (MMC) exterior wall panel by one of the Wales’ (UK) largest OSMs (referred to as the company hereafter) of TF construction systems. The evaluation uses an ethnographic observational approach of the current production processes against lean manufacturing principles (LMP) and adopting time and motion studies (T&M) from 2019, part of a three-year knowledge transfer partnership (KTP). The preliminary results from the LMP and T&M studies are presented and highlight opportunities for quick win refinements utilizing lean manufacturing methods such as value stream mapping (VSM), the 5S system and Kaizens within the company’s operational processes, to refine the use of materials and labour in their smart manufacturing whilst reducing defects. Thus, with such refinements to improve manufacturing, they are better able to trial other forms of insulation such as wood fibre, whilst increasing the thermal performance of their panels to meet the nearly zero operational energy performance standards. This paper will be useful for academics, OSMs of TF systems, building contractors, estimators, housing developers, clients and government stakeholders.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationSustainability in Energy and Buildings 2020
EditorsJohn Littlewood, Robert J. Howlett, Robert J. Howlett, Robert J. Howlett, Lakhmi C. Jain, Lakhmi C. Jain, Lakhmi C. Jain
PublisherSpringer Science and Business Media Deutschland GmbH
Pages503-514
Number of pages12
ISBN (Print)9789811587825
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 8 Dec 2020
Event12th KES International Conference on Sustainability and Energy in Buildings, SEB 2020 - Split, Croatia
Duration: 24 Jun 202026 Jun 2020

Publication series

NameSmart Innovation, Systems and Technologies
Volume203
ISSN (Print)2190-3018
ISSN (Electronic)2190-3026

Conference

Conference12th KES International Conference on Sustainability and Energy in Buildings, SEB 2020
Country/TerritoryCroatia
CitySplit
Period24/06/2026/06/20

Keywords

  • Lean manufacturing
  • Modern methods of construction
  • Offsite manufacturing
  • Timber frame
  • Time and motion studies
  • UK
  • Wales

Cite this