YKK and CADDi Collaborate to Enhance Manufacturing Competitiveness Through Knowledge Management

Enhancing Manufacturing Competitiveness with AI Data Platforms

In an era where digital transformation is pivotal for the manufacturing sector, CADDi Inc. is making significant strides. Based in Taito, Tokyo, and led by CEO Yuushirou Kato, CADDi has pioneered the implementation of its AI data platform within the machine manufacturing division of leading fastening manufacturer, YKK Corporation. This collaboration showcases how leveraging technology can digitize tacit knowledge and streamline manufacturing processes.

Background Challenges at YKK

YKK, known globally for its fastening products such as zippers, operates with a comprehensive production model—encompassing everything from material melting to machinery manufacturing. However, this diligent approach has encountered hurdles in recent years. The rapid increase in product variations has resulted in complications in the manufacturing process, particularly in utilizing past drawings effectively. This has complicated workflows and extended lead times significantly.

Prior to CADDi's introduction, excessive reliance on the tacit knowledge of skilled workers often led to a situation where specific designs were only known to certain individuals. This phenomenon, known as 'knowledge siloing', not only affected the design process but also complicated procurement operations, ultimately impacting productivity across departments.

When the COVID-19 pandemic pushed businesses to critically evaluate operations, several areas for improvement emerged. For instance, CADDi uncovered that external partners could complete processes in one step that YKK had defined as fifteen. This revelation provided the impetus needed for YKK to adopt a new operational framework.

Implementation of CADDi

The adoption of CADDi introduced a transformative pathway. Tasks that once required extensive manual oversight—like managing thousands of drawings and defect data—can now be completed in just a day or two. This efficiency is paramount, especially in an environment aiming for streamlined operations and enhanced output.

The platform provides comprehensive digital resource management, allowing for swift data extraction and linkage of historical defect cases with current drawings. This accessibility encourages real-time decision-making in the manufacturing process, effectively reducing lead times and enabling faster adaptations to market demands.

Moreover, the CADDi Drawer application has been embraced by employees due to its superior performance and quick information retrieval capabilities—transforming the way both junior and veteran employees approach their tasks. Search times reduced dramatically from over 30 seconds to seconds, fostering an environment where mistakes can be addressed swiftly. Employees are now encouraged to utilize CADDi Drawer first before seeking guidance from experienced colleagues, promoting knowledge sharing and enhancing self-sufficiency among newer staff members.

Future Directions

While the current usage of CADDi has predominantly focused on the machine manufacturing division, the path forward involves integrating this digital approach into the design department. To achieve true operational efficiency, it's essential to standardize parts and share departmental experiences across the board.

The ultimate goal is to create a manufacturing platform that integrates development, manufacturing, and procurement, significantly reducing lead times from market entry to production. By leveraging AI, YKK and CADDi aspire to ensure that consistent quality is maintained across all global manufacturing sites.

Yuki Matsui, Executive Officer and Head of the Machine Manufacturing Division at YKK, emphasizes the vision for the future. He asserts that rather than being consumed by repetitive tasks, the aim is to evolve into an organization where personnel can focus on more creative and impactful work. The effective use of CADDi has begun to shift the expansive product variety issue, aiming to deliver uniformly high-quality products worldwide, controlled through advanced AI systems.

As CADDi continues to grow, with plans to expand its suite of applications while navigating international markets, it aims to liberate the manufacturing industry’s potential. Supporting this new era of digital transformation, CADDi is set to redefine competitiveness in Japan and beyond.

For more information about CADDi and how its AI data platform is shaping the future of manufacturing, visit their official website at CADDi.