Development of 1/N Machines for Optimization of life Cycle Cost Responding to Globally Varying Production Environment

International business competition is becoming intense along with economic growth among emerging countries. One of the most significant issues in the expansion of global production involves the localization of parts. Parts processing requires sophisticated techniques, and its localization requires a certain level of production volume and investment. These needs have caused delays in localization, now among the most significant hindrances to competitiveness. We developed 1/N machines in order to solve these issues and build a new lean production system with high cost competitiveness. This system is expected to reduce environmental footprints and generate steady competitiveness throughout the entire product life cycle.