Achieving agility in manufacturing through finite element mould analysis An application-oriented research

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to report a research which is carried out to examine the possibility of applying finite element analysis (FEA) and computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) concepts in a typical organisational environment to acquire the characteristics of agile manufacturing (AM). Design/methodology/approach - One of the components of a model of electronic switch manufactured by a company was chosen as the candidate of this research. Five new models of this component incorporated with agile characteristics were developed in electronic environment using Moldflow Plastics Insight software. Findings - The experiences of conducting this research being reported in this paper indicate the possibility of adopting FEA-integrated CAD/CAM concept for achieving agility. However, certain hindrances have to be overcome to pursue deeper journey by the contemporary organisations in this direction. Research limitations/implications - This research is conducted on one component of a product manufactured by a company. The typical scenario prevailing in the company is similar that is seen in many companies situated in other parts of the worlds. Hence, the contributions of this research, particularly the roadmap would be useful for adopting FEA and CAD/CAM concepts to achieve agility in contemporary organisations. Practical implications - The research reported in this paper has shown the way of focusing FEA-integrated CAD/CAM utilities towards enhancing AM capabilities of contemporary organisations. Originality/value - The literature survey conducted in the beginning of this research indicated that deeper research in the direction of applying FEA-integrated CAD/CAM concept for acquiring agile characteristics is yet to start. Hence, the research reported in this paper is original and valuable.