Sony MPK-THC User Manual

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Sony views manufacturing as a core competence.

Over the years, Sony has introduced many revolu-

tionary products as only Sony can do. To cope with

rapidly changing market conditions, even more

manufacturing innovations are being implemented

at Sony. The aim is to restructure the product

creation framework into a knowledge-intensive

process that can generate added value. One

example of this kind of measure is the widespread

adoption of a highly efficient, flexible production

system called the “cell production method.” Other

ongoing projects involve increasing the output of

devices and modules, upgrading core technologies,

such as high-density mounting, and building an

integrated manufacturing process for semiconduc-

tors and components that extends to the point

where they are incorporated on the circuit board

and as parts of products in the assembly process.

Concurrent to this, Sony is assembling a powerful

supply chain management system and raising

overall production-related operating efficiency. The

combined result of these actions is the optimization

of Sony’s engineering and manufacturing systems

for each regional market. Sony is now accelerating

the innovation of its product creation as a vital

factor in maintaining its vitality and continued

ability to flourish and grow.

To add even more value to its manufacturing opera-

tions, Sony is extending the level of its process

integration over and above the engineering,

manufacturing and customer service axis. Logis-

tics have been seamlessly integrated, and an even

more advanced supply chain management (SCM)

system is being assembled. Close links between

manufacturing and distribution mean products

can reach customers even faster. Also, by execut-

ing logistics reforms in tandem with manufactur-

ing innovation, Sony is cutting the procurement

costs of product components as well as reducing

the inventories of these components and the

finished products themselves. As a result, overall

space utilization at manufacturing and distribu-

tion sites can be enhanced.

Sony believes constant manufacturing and

distribution innovation—even on a daily basis—

will yield continuous improvements, essential to

the Sony Group‘s success.

Semiconductors and other new components are

vital to success in the emerging market for digital

consumer electronics. With this in mind, operation

sites in Japan are positioned as hubs to strengthen

the domestic production sites’ ability to produce

advanced modules and components. By stepping

up the output of original and unique components,

Sony is differentiating its products and creating

added value in the manufacturing stage.

How Sony makes its products

Speeding up the manufacturing revolution

As one element of “Transformation 60,” Sony is taking a fresh look at its past manufacturing practices
and conducting a worldwide realignment of manufacturing activities. Engineering and manufacturing
capabilities and operating speed are crucial to creating competitive products. By globally reinforcing
these capabilities, Sony believes it can bolster its entire product lineup and enhance profitability.

Craftsmanship

Sony