Abstract
In the last decade considerable attention has been paid to the analysis and optimization of multi-echelon assembly networks. Research contributions in this field are mainly focussed on the determination of optimal batch quantities. In this paper two other issues concerning multi-echelon assembly networks are also discussed. The first point concerns the notion of flexibility in assembly operations. Flexibility can be achieved by spending on assembly engineering to cut set-up costs. The second point has to do with design of multi-level assembly systems. Furthermore the notion of minimum network leadtime is introduced. This turns out to be (besides minimal average cost per period) a performance indicator of considerable importance. To conclude an existing Philips product (called medsys) is presented in order to illustrate the ideas discussed in this paper.
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