Lean Production Simplified, 3rd Edition

Just-in-Time Production ◾ 113

authorization and sequence through a type B heijunka box (also called a

sequencing box).

To approximate continuous flow in custom processes we must maintain a

FIFO flow through each process step and carefully regulate the quantity of

work released through the FIFO chain of steps.

Small parts required to make the goods are stored line-side, often in a

small store. Large expensive parts are not stored on-site, if possible, to lower

inventory costs. Type B systems carry little or no finished goods inventory.

At Toyota Cambridge our assembly line was a B-type system. Parts were

supplied by an A-type system. I learned that ...