The Impact of Learning Factories on Teaching Lean Principles in an Assembly Environment

Abstract Learning factories are realistic manufacturing environments built for education; many universities have recently introduced learning in engineering programs to tackle real industrial problems; however, statistical studies on its effectiveness still scarce. This paper presents a study the impact of students’ process, when teaching lean concepts an assembly environment. The analysis is carried out through Lean Manufacturing Lab at KTH, factory supporting traditional educational activities. In lab, students assemble product line; during three rounds, they identify problems line, apply appropriate tools overcome problems, and try achieve higher productivity. based times recorded sessions lab. A questionnaire submitted after course evaluates level knowledge production principles that achieved. results twofold: improvement implementation positive effect hands-on experience understanding principles, highlighted by answers questionnaire. main contributions applying line improves productivity even with inexperienced operators, implementing effective enhancing and, lastly, first-hand environment added value education.