Citation
(2007), "On time in full quality from TODS", Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, Vol. 79 No. 3. https://doi.org/10.1108/aeat.2007.12779cab.027
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2007, Emerald Group Publishing Limited
On time in full quality from TODS
On time in full quality from TODS
With substantial orders from military and commercial airframe manufacturers, aerospace composites provider W&J Tod Limited (TODS) have completed a comprehensive restructuring of their Somerset facilities creating two totally independent value streams covering both Aerospace Components and Premium Interiors.
Richard Winterbottom, TODS Operational Director says: “This `Lean Transformation' has increased productivity and generated significant additional capacity through improved utilisation of floor space. The aim is to further develop a culture of `Continuous Improvement' within the Value Stream, with the introduction of SQCDP objectives – safety, quality, cost, delivery and people.”
“Typically, Premium Interiors have recently secured sales contracts which more than double output, and this team now manages the whole process from receipt of customer enquiry, through design and to `On Time in Full' delivery schedules.”
Over the next three months TODS will further enhance their quality management culture as they target to gain AS/EN 9100 accreditation. TODS have successfully maintained their ISO 9001:2000 certification for many years and now believe the next step to gaining AS/EN 9100 is vital to deliver the highest standards of customer satisfaction, and to broaden their scope within international aerospace markets.
TODS also report that are the first supplier to establish a Virtual Private Network (VPN) design link with helicopter manufacturer AgustaWestland, specifically created for work on the Future Lynx helicopter programme. The VPN links the design teams of both companies, and went live in December.
The link enables TODS designers to connect directly to AgustaWestland's digital mock-up system, removing the need to transfer data between sites during the design development process. Updates are made in real in real time allowing both design teams, from their separate locations, to develop design concepts to ensure the accurate mating of differing aerospace sections.
Pete Eckersall, head of Engineering at TODS, says:
“We believe this is the forerunner to how participants in the aerospace industry will design and deliver product for the future. The VPN communications link will enable design data to be captured quickly with concepts being jointly developed, which will reduce timescales and costs.”
“As a developing SME we will benefit from working closely with an international aircraft manufacturer, and AgustaWestland will have a direct benefit of our expertise in design and manufacture technically superior composite products.”