Pitch Calculator
Turn takt time into pitch — the practical rhythm at which you release and check work. Free, instant and fully in your browser.
Pitch
18 min
per pack
Pitch = Takt × Pack size
Pitch is the heartbeat you feed the pacemaker and heijunka box — the interval at which you release work and check progress.
What is pitch?
Pitch is takt time multiplied by the pack (or container) size — the time it takes to produce one container of product. While takt is the per-unit demand rhythm, pitch is the practical management interval: how often you release materials, move finished packs, and check whether the line is on plan. It is the heartbeat behind the pacemaker and the heijunka (load-levelling) box.
How to calculate pitch
- 1
Start from takt time
Use your takt time — net available time divided by demand. (Our takt calculator can give you this.)
- 2
Multiply by pack size
Multiply takt by the number of units in one container or pack to get pitch.
- 3
Use pitch as your interval
Release work and check the line every pitch. It makes problems visible within minutes, not at end of shift.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between takt and pitch?
Takt is the demand rhythm per unit; pitch is takt multiplied by pack size — a more practical management interval for releasing and checking work in container-sized batches.
Why use pitch instead of takt for management?
Reacting every few seconds (takt) is impractical on most lines. Pitch gives a sensible, container-based interval to pace material handling, the heijunka box and visual management.
How do I find a reliable takt to start from?
Use net available time divided by demand. For the cycle and work content that must fit inside takt, Yamazo Studio measures it frame-by-frame from production video.
Related lean tools & guides
Set the rhythm, then hit it
Pitch sets the beat. Yamazo Studio turns shop-floor video into the standard work and balancing that let the line hold it — one offline Lean Operating Desk.
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