Reflective Production in the Final Assembly of Motor Vehicles - An Emerging Swedish Challenge

• Presents some theoretical principles and empirical evidence relating to the new Swedish production systems for final assembly of motor vehicles. Contends that in these production systems it is possible simultaneously to enhance efficiency and quality of working life. Briefly sketches three production forms as they apply to the final assembly of automobiles and discusses the societal environments in which these different forms of production have evolved. It focuses on Volvo Uddevalla plant as one of the main examples so far of a reflective production system for final assembly of automobiles. Amplifies the analysis of different production flow patterns for final assembly and in particular addresses the issue of semi‐parallel mechanistic production flow and parallel organic production flow as alternatives to serial flow on a conventional line assembly. A comment: This publication is authored together with e.g. senior research competencies (1) within vocational learning and training as well as (2) within time-geography with whom Engström have had long time cooperation procedures. But also personal at our department/research group (Mats Johansson) well as our knowledgeable contact person (Bertil Johansson) within Volvo contributed (he has really helped us out for decades and was responsible for the continuous contacts with Volvo in most any matter).

Subject headings

TEKNIK OCH TEKNOLOGIER  -- Maskinteknik -- Annan maskinteknik (hsv//swe)

ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY  -- Mechanical Engineering -- Other Mechanical Engineering (hsv//eng)

Keyword

learning and training

manufacturing technology

work organisation

assembly work

ergonomics

sociotechnology

work structuring

Volvo Uddevalla plant

long work cycle times

alternatives to line assembly

restructuring of information systems

Publication and Content Type

art (subject category)

ref (subject category)