Host: The Japan Society of Mechanical Engineers
Name : [in Japanese]
Date : September 18, 2024 - September 20, 2024
This study examines Design for Logistics (DfL), a concept focused on product and packaging design that considers logistics efficiency. We review relevant literature, analyze extended definitions by practitioners, and investigate 26 DfL implementation cases in Japan. The cases are qualitatively evaluated based on seven criteria from a practical DfL definition. Key findings include: 1) DfL implementation can improve communication between design and logistics departments through the use of key performance indicators (KPIs); 2) While many cases showed improvements in volume efficiency, few addressed automation or management process enhancements; 3) Most cases were from logistics companies and manufacturing industries (automotive, machinery), with fewer examples from retail and food industries. Based on these results, we propose two research directions for design support: 1) Developing methods to select appropriate KPIs that facilitate interdepartmental collaboration in DfL implementation; 2) Exploring DfL applications in the food industry, considering its unique characteristics and constraints. Limitations of this study include potential bias from relying solely on publicly available information and focusing on cases explicitly mentioning DfL. Future research should investigate similar concepts like Design for Supply Chain Management to provide a more comprehensive understanding of logistics-oriented design approaches. This research contributes to the growing body of knowledge on DfL and offers insights for practitioners and researchers seeking to improve product design and logistics efficiency.
