Realizing a fully automated production line with superior cost performance by introducing robotics and AI technologies

Current Job

Controlling introduction, improvement and expansion of production facilities

When I was looking for a job, I focused on component manufacturers that supported industry. I joined SMK because I shared its philosophy that "good components make good products." I also liked the company's comprehensive benefits program. Immediately after entering the company I was in charge of designing switches. Now I am in charge of production technologies for switches. The tasks involved in production technology are deciding facilities, production lines and production management rules according to the requirements of sales and design staff to realize production of their desired switches. Sometimes we improve existing lines or expand facilities in response to rising production numbers. Basically we build production facilities together with an automatic assembly machine manufacturer, but we also design, make and install tools on the production lines. We sometimes redesign a facility through feedback with the design division that results in a simpler product configuration that can more easily be assembled.

Job Satisfaction

All the hard work pays off when a product becomes a big hit.

I once participated in a project to introduce a large scale production line. I worked at the plant every day for nearly six months in order to build and fine tune the production line. Our customer had exacting requirements which complicated design and production. We had to work on the production site for such a long time, focusing on detailed construction and adjustment. For example, we repeatedly made fine adjustments using a scope to remedy a defect where the high processing speed caused the product to become deformed. It was hard work, but I believe this intense experience made me a better production engineer. These days finer and finer switches are needed, so sophisticated assembly techniques are required. As a result the level of production technology has become very high. When I finally see a production line running and releasing millions of products to the market, I get great satisfaction. If a product that incorporates an SMK switch becomes a big hit, all the hard work seems worth it.

Challenges and Dreams

To become a production engineer trusted by both design engineers and operators

It is especially important for production technology engineers to work closely with design engineers and on-site operators in order to simplify production and assembly work and realize an easy-to-operate production line. Therefore, my goal is to become a production engineer who is trusted by design engineers and operators. In order to realize a production line that operates with optimal efficiency I would like to improve my skills. We still face many challenges for improving efficiency and many lines at the plant still require manual operation, so I will proactively pursue production improvements and production innovation. My dream is to realize a fully automated production line with good cost performance by introducing robotics and AI technology.