Jidoka (autonomation) is the application of automation but with the specific requirement of always building in self-checking so that defects are not possible (automation with human intelligence in the machine). Human effort and motion are replaced by using autonomation with many of the benefits of full automation but without the prohibitive cost of making fully automated equipment failure-proof.
Autonomation is simpler, cheaper, and more flexible than full automation. Autonomation allows one operator to look after several machines so reducing labor costs. With jidoka any problem stops the line and requires human intervention increasing respect for humanity.
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