AME Milwaukee 2026 International Conference
Tours
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Design for manufacturing, empowering team members
Making manufacturing easier, better and more flexible through employee input
OVERVIEW
As part of its continuous improvement journey, the company emphasizes three core programs that strengthen manufacturing excellence.
1. Design for manufacturing (DFM)
Bruno applies design for manufacturing principles to ensure products are engineered with production efficiency in mind. By integrating manufacturing considerations early in the design process, the company reduces complexity, lowers costs and improves quality. This approach enables Bruno to deliver reliable products while optimizing resources and minimizing waste. Bruno applies this approach to both new and existing operations.
2. Mistake proofing in manufacturing
Mistake proofing, or poka-yoke, is central to Bruno’s quality strategy. Processes and equipment are designed to prevent errors before they occur. Bruno has implemented kanban throughout its manufacturing process to reduce errors related to parts shortages or overstocking. Additional examples include sensors, standardized work instructions and automated checks that identify defects early. This proactive approach enhances safety, reduces rework and ensures consistent product reliability.
3. Flexibility in manufacturing
Bruno’s manufacturing system is designed to adapt quickly to customer needs. This flexibility allows the company to manage customized orders, adjust production volumes and respond to market changes without sacrificing quality. The approach supports innovation and reinforces ownership among team members. Bruno has also developed training programs that enhance flexibility while building team member skills.
1. Design for manufacturing (DFM)
Bruno applies design for manufacturing principles to ensure products are engineered with production efficiency in mind. By integrating manufacturing considerations early in the design process, the company reduces complexity, lowers costs and improves quality. This approach enables Bruno to deliver reliable products while optimizing resources and minimizing waste. Bruno applies this approach to both new and existing operations.
2. Mistake proofing in manufacturing
Mistake proofing, or poka-yoke, is central to Bruno’s quality strategy. Processes and equipment are designed to prevent errors before they occur. Bruno has implemented kanban throughout its manufacturing process to reduce errors related to parts shortages or overstocking. Additional examples include sensors, standardized work instructions and automated checks that identify defects early. This proactive approach enhances safety, reduces rework and ensures consistent product reliability.
3. Flexibility in manufacturing
Bruno’s manufacturing system is designed to adapt quickly to customer needs. This flexibility allows the company to manage customized orders, adjust production volumes and respond to market changes without sacrificing quality. The approach supports innovation and reinforces ownership among team members. Bruno has also developed training programs that enhance flexibility while building team member skills.
ABOUT THE COMPANY
Bruno Independent Living Aids is a veteran-founded, family-owned company dedicated to enhancing mobility since 1984. Based in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin, Bruno designs and manufactures stair lifts, scooter lifts, platform lifts and home elevators.
With a global presence, Bruno is recognized for quality, safety and innovation in accessibility solutions.
www.bruno.com
With a global presence, Bruno is recognized for quality, safety and innovation in accessibility solutions.
www.bruno.com
Requirements & Restrictions
Requirements:
Safety glasses (tour site to provide)
Restrictions:
No recording devices
No mobile phones
No competitors
Safety glasses (tour site to provide)
Restrictions:
No recording devices
No mobile phones
No competitors
TAGS
Click on a tag to discover more sessions with that theme, topic or level.
Click on a tag to discover more sessions with that theme, topic or level.
Tools that empower
People-centric leadership
Level: Intermediate
