Laboratory Development through Quality Circle Approach

This paper presents the work carried out by Quality Circle at Automobile Engineering Department of Rajarambapu Institute of Technology, Sakharale, to develop a demonstration setup of Electronic Ignition System of two wheeler in Automobile Electrical and Electronics Laboratory of the same department, aimed at better understanding of practical concepts of automotive ignition systems. Due to lack of demonstration setup, the experiment on electronic ignition system was being conducted merely theoretically earlier; which resulted in poor understanding of concept and working of the system. During this period, 28 meetings were conducted and 12 step QC methodology was applied in order to find the solution. QC tools such as Pareto diagram, Cause - effect analysis, why-why analysis were used effectively. As a part of solution, the Quality Circle fabricated a demonstration setup of electronic ignition system which helped students in understanding the system practically. The solution was implemented for final year Automobile Engineering students over a period of two months after which follow-up and review was taken which showed increased response of students in terms of attendance, understanding and better performance in viva. Also, it resulted in effective utilization of practical hours.

The case study offered benefits to the Quality Circle members in terms of recognition at institution, regional, national and international level, attitudinal change and joy of creative fulfillment. Moreover, it emphasized the importance of team work. The case study was presented at International Convention on Quality Control Circles and won the Gold Medal for the same.