Hur hanterar vi ökad variation - ur ett tekniskt och mänskligt perspektiv

This thesis investigates how increased variation creates difficulties and how current working strategies can be improved. Conducted in collaboration with Volvo Powertrain in Skövde, Sweden, the study focuses on a production Linje 1 with increased variation. By combining human factors theory and empirical data, the thesis analyzes actions to better handle variation. Observations, interviews, and analysis of instruction support revealed assumptions on cause factors and beneficial changes, with focus on competence differences and manual assembly. Results show a lack of standardization and education aligned with training. HCI theory highlights how not understanding the “why” weakens performance—people ignore advantages of specific behaviors if not understood. Neuroscientific and psychological research shows that repeated behavior becomes automated. When manuals contain errors, experienced assemblers rely on habits, increasing the tendency to overlook manuals—leading to mistakes when variations require updated information. An existing work culture discouraged breaks, as assemblers pre-assembled components. This prevents cognitive recovery and impairs attention to crucial instructions for managing variation. Changing control buttons to stand out visually and enhancing training with more theoretical learning beyond practical tasks could help new assemblers gain a complete understanding of the production Linje 1 and reach better knowledge saturation.