Pitch

Introduction: Pitch

In production, Pitch refers to the time required to produce a set quantity of products and prepare them for the next process or for dispatch. It represents the heartbeat of the production system, much like a pacemaker regulates rhythm in the body. Pitch provides a practical way to measure, monitor, and align workflow with customer demand.

Background

Pitch originates from Lean manufacturing and Just-In-Time (JIT) principles, where synchronised flow is key to efficiency. It defines the time needed to complete one standard batch or container of products. By establishing a consistent cycle, Pitch ensures that work moves smoothly through each stage of the value stream without delays or overproduction.
It is commonly expressed as the time per container or the time required to produce a fixed number of items, and it links takt time to real-world material flow and handling capacity.

Key Elements / Features

• Formula:

\( \text{Pitch} = \text{Takt Time} \times \text{Pack Size} \)

• Efficiency: Supports optimisation of assembly lines and workstations.
• Responsiveness: Enables quick adjustment to customer demand fluctuations.
• Coordination: Aligns production rhythm with support roles such as the Pacemaker and the Water Spider (Mizusumashi).
• Planning: Improves flow control, material handling, and delivery accuracy.

Relation to Pacemaker and Water Spider

• The Pacemaker process sets the rhythm for the entire production line, ensuring that all downstream and upstream activities operate in harmony with customer demand. Pitch determines how often the pacemaker releases work to maintain that rhythm.
• The Water Spider (Mizusumashi) supports the process by delivering materials and collecting finished goods according to the Pitch interval. This coordination ensures the operator can maintain flow without interruptions or waiting for parts.
  Together, Pitch, Pacemaker, and Water Spider create a stable, synchronised, and waste-free production rhythm.

Applications / Examples

• Lean Environments: Used to align production flow and batch timing with customer pull.
• Just-In-Time Systems: Maintains synchronised cycles between production, material supply, and logistics.
• Logistics Support: The Water Spider delivers components and collects output in line with each Pitch cycle.

Relevance / Impact

Pitch is an essential measure for maintaining production rhythm and resource allocation. It provides the structure that allows processes to run predictably and efficiently. By managing Pitch effectively, teams can reduce waiting, overproduction, and inventory waste. A well-defined Pitch enhances coordination between production and logistics, strengthens flow, and supports a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence.

See also

• Takt Time
• Pacemaker in Lean
• Water Spider (Mizusumashi)
• Just-In-Time (JIT)