Process planning solution for increasing the productivity and robustness of work schedules for batch production processes

Abstract

This paper analyses the issue of ensuring enhanced productivity and robustness to work schedules designed for multi-operational batch production processes, when a fixed, limited number of workstations can be used for production. The productivity of a batch production schedule for a specific quantity of items is measured by the length of its cycle time, while the robustness of the schedule is given by the size and distribution of operational slack times that are ensured during the production process run. It is mathematically demonstrated that a simple process planning solution may be the key for meeting the above mentioned objectives, if it is possible to be applied in practice in combination with the lot streaming strategy for the production flow.