Optimal Capacity Utilization Research Articles

Optimizing coordinate measuring machine measurement plans: Economic benefits and environmental impact

This paper focusses on describing the economic benefits of optimizing coordinate measuring machine (CMM) measurement plans using the know-how in understanding the evolution of measurement error due to the dynamic effects of CMM design. The optimization method described in this paper is low in terms of investment costs because it only involves the utilization of the capacity of machinery and service personnel. It is a suitable complementary activity in case of lower utilization of workplaces using CMM for dimensional inspection of production. The conclusions of this paper may be important, especially for workplaces where serial production is inspected. The method can be used for optimizing capacity utilization in the case of an increase of production volume on the order of units to lower tens of percent without spending investment resources.

Performance Investigations on All-Solid-State Polymer-Ceramic Sodium-Ion Batteries through a Spatially Resolved Electrochemical Model

Rechargeable batteries are crucial in modern energy storage, with lithium-ion batteries dominating the market. However, the scarcity and environmental concerns associated with lithium have spurred interest in alternative battery chemistries, particularly sodium-ion batteries (SIBs), which utilize abundant sodium resources. Despite extensive experimental research on all-solid-state SIBs (ASSSIBs), theoretical investigations have primarily focused on molecular-level analyses, overlooking the impact of cell composition on overall performance. This paper aims to address this gap by developing a physical model for simulating ASSSIBs at the particle scale. Our methodology involves integrating experimental data with simulation results to identify key factors influencing battery performance. The study reveals slow sodium ion transport as a significant bottleneck, attributed to factors such as low porosity of the half-cell and limited electrolyte ionic conductivity. Simulation outcomes emphasize the importance of advancing fast-ion-conducting solid electrolytes to enhance ASSSIB performance. Moreover, the results suggest that electrodes with high electrolyte active filler content and reduced thickness are necessary for achieving optimal battery capacity utilization. Overall, this research underscores the intricate relationship between electrode microstructure and battery performance, offering valuable insights for the design and optimization of sustainable sodium-ion battery systems suitable for stationary and mobile applications.

Design and implementation of a high misalignment-tolerance wireless charger for an electric vehicle with control of the constant current/voltage charging

Wireless charging of Electric Vehicles (EVs) has been extensively researched in the realm of electric cars, offering a convenient method. Nonetheless, there has been a scarcity of experiments conducted on low-power electric vehicles. To establish a wireless power transfer system for an electric vehicle, optimal power and transmission efficiency necessitate arranging the coils coaxially. In wireless charging systems, coils often experience angular and lateral misalignments. In this paper, a new alignment strategy is introduced to tackle the misalignment problem between the transmitter and receiver coils in the wireless charging of Electric Vehicles (EVs). The study involves the design and analysis of a coil, considering factors such as mutual inductance and efficiency. Wireless coils with angular misalignment are modelled in Ansys Maxwell simulation software. The proposed practical EV system aims to align the coils using angular motion, effectively reducing misalignment during the parking of two-wheelers. This is achieved by tilting the transmitter coil in the desired direction. Furthermore, micro sensing coils are employed to identify misalignment and facilitate automatic alignment. Additionally, adopting a power control technique becomes essential to achieve both constant current (CC) and constant voltage (CV) modes during battery charging. Integrating CC and CV modes is crucial for efficiently charging lithium-ion batteries, ensuring prolonged lifespan and optimal capacity utilization. The developed system can improve the efficiency of the wireless charging system to 90.3% with a 24 V, 16 Ah Lithium Ion Phosphate (LiFePO4) battery at a 160 mm distance between the coils.

Impact of Inward Internationalization on Outward Internationalization in Enhancing Organizational Capabilities in Iranian Pharmaceutical Companies

Background: The objective of this study was to propose a model for examining the impact of inward internationalization on outward internationalization in Iranian pharmaceutical companies by focusing on organizational capabilities. Methods: Qualitative research was employed, and the grounded theory approach was utilized for data analysis. The study involved conducting interviews with 16 individuals who possessed experience in international activities within the pharmaceutical sector and expertise, using the snowball sampling method. The data gathered from the interviews underwent open, axial, and selective coding analyses, resulting in the development of a paradigm model of internationalization within the pharmaceutical industry. The paradigm model is composed of causal conditions, background conditions, intervening conditions, central phenomena, strategies, and consequences. Results: The research findings indicated that causal factors of internationalization encompass learning from other countries, updating medical and technical knowledge, expanding activities beyond domestic markets, facilitating production quality improvement, and promoting growth within the pharmaceutical industry. Strategies for internationalization include adopting an international perspective, implementing effective macro-level policies, utilizing long-term strategies, enhancing workforce professional capabilities through training, improving standards and documentation, devising strategies for rational budget utilization, planning for optimal capacity utilization, and strengthening international communication and political relationships. Conclusion: Ultimately, the consequences of inward internationalization and the enhancement of organizational capabilities lead to outward internationalization and a favorable position within the global pharmaceutical industry, improvements in organizational capabilities and international relations, development of cross-border business, economic prosperity within the pharmaceutical industry, and heightened commitment to foreign markets.

AIRLINE PRICING: HOW AIRLINES USE PRICING STRATGEIES

Airline pricing strategies play a pivotal role in the aviation industry's revenue management. This abstract explores the intricate mechanisms behind airline pricing, delving into the fundamental principles, factors, and techniques utilized by airlines to set fares. Drawing from a combination of academic research, industry reports, and real-world examples, this abstract provides a concise overview of the dynamic landscape of airline pricing. The abstract begins by elucidating the core objectives of airline pricing strategies, emphasizing the dual goals of maximizing revenue and optimizing capacity utilization. It then delineates the key determinants that shape pricing decisions, including demand forecasting, market segmentation, competition analysis, cost considerations, and consumer behavior. Furthermore, the abstract elucidates various pricing tactics employed by airlines, such as dynamic pricing, yield management, fare differentiation, and ancillary revenue generation. It examines how advanced analytics and revenue management systems enable airlines to dynamically adjust fares in response to fluctuating demand patterns, market conditions, and competitor actions. Moreover, the abstract explores the role of distribution channels in airline pricing, highlighting the importance of direct bookings, online travel agencies (OTAs), global distribution systems (GDS), and partnerships with intermediaries. It also discusses the emergence of personalized pricing strategies, leveraging big data analytics and machine learning algorithms to tailor fares based on individual preferences and purchasing behavior. Additionally, the abstract touches upon the regulatory frameworks and ethical considerations surrounding airline pricing practices, including transparency, fairness, and consumer protection. It underscores the need for airlines to strike a balance between revenue optimization and customer satisfaction, fostering trust and loyalty among passengers. In conclusion, this abstract offer valuable insights into the complex ecosystem of airline pricing strategies, shedding light on the multifaceted interplay between market dynamics, technological advancements, and business objectives. By understanding the underlying principles and tactics of airline pricing, stakeholders can navigate the competitive landscape more effectively, driving sustainable growth and profitability in the aviation industry.

Solutions for improved hospital-wide patient flows – a qualitative interview study of leading healthcare providers

BackgroundHospital productivity is of great importance for patients and public health to achieve better availability and health outcomes. Previous research demonstrates that improvements can be reached by directing more attention to the flow of patients. There is a significant body of literature on how to improve patient flows, but these research projects rarely encompass complete hospitals. Therefore, through interviews with senior managers at the world’s leading hospitals, this study aims to identify effective solutions to enable swift patient flows across hospitals and develop a framework to guide improvements in hospital-wide patient flows.MethodsThis study drew on qualitative data from interviews with 33 senior managers at 18 of the world’s 25 leading hospitals, spread across nine countries. The interviews were conducted between June 2021 and November 2021 and transcribed verbatim. A thematic analysis followed, based on inductive reasoning to identify meaningful subjects and themes.ResultsWe have identified 50 solutions to efficient hospital-wide patient flows. They describe the importance for hospitals to align the organization; build a coordination and transfer structure; ensure physical capacity capabilities; develop standards, checklists, and routines; invest in digital and analytical tools; improve the management of operations; optimize capacity utilization and occupancy rates; and seek external solutions and policy changes. This study also presents a patient flow improvement framework to be used by healthcare managers, commissioners, and decision-makers when designing strategies to improve the delivery of healthcare services to meet the needs of patients.ConclusionsHospitals must invest in new capabilities and technologies, implement new working methods, and build a patient flow-focused culture. It is also important to strategically look at the patient’s whole trajectory of care as one unified flow that must be aligned and integrated between and across all actors, internally and externally. Hospitals need to both proactively and reactively optimize their capacity use around the patient flow to provide care for as many patients as possible and to spread the burden evenly across the organization.

Analysis of Efficency, Cost Structure and Revenues of ALT Free Flaps in Extremity Reconstruction

Microvascular reconstructions can be lengthy procedures lasting the entire day. As a result of unforeseeable events, the standardization of these procedures can be challenging. Moreover, the length of these procedures varies strongly, which impedes adequate scheduling and, therefore, optimal capacity utilization. Within the years 2018-2020, the duration of ALT free flap extremity reconstructions was correlated with the experience of the microsurgeon (category 1:<50 free flaps life-time experience, category 2: 50-200, category 3:>200) and comorbidities. The resulting costs were compared with the matrix of the German DRG Institute InEK. The surgical experience of the microsurgeon had a significant impact on the duration of surgery in extremity reconstruction. In due consideration of potential complications, category 2 microsurgeons were 45 minutes faster and category 3 microsurgeons were 167 minutes faster than category 1 microsurgeons. Comorbidities, by contrast, did not have a significant impact on procedure duration. Cost analysis revealed deficits for these procedures in relation to the InEK matrix. However, an additional analysis showed that the duration of surgery was within the German average while costs for personnel/OR minute were slightly below the average. According to this calculation, costs for microsurgical training were approximately 1000€/case. The reimbursement for flaps in extremity reconstruction is not entirely mapped in the German DRG system. Given the longer procedure times, microsurgical training is associated with higher costs. Defining the duration of microsurgery based on the level of expertise should result in improved adherence to schedule and more efficient utilization of the valuable operating room time.

Financial Reforms in Nigeria and Its Effect on the Performance of Quoted Manufacturing Firms

The study examined the effect of financial reforms on the performance of quoted manufacturing firms in Nigeria. The study used an expo-facto research design. The study population comprises 44 manufacturing companies quoted at [1], which include Agriculture, Conglomerates, Consumer goods, Healthcare / Pharmaceuticals, Industrial goods, and Natural Resources. Thus, using a study period of 10 years (2010 – 2019) data on financial sector reforms (financial deepening, domestic credit, liquidity, market capitalisation, exchange rate and interest rate) carried out in Nigeria, being the independent variable and on performance (capacity utilization). Panel structured secondary data were collected and analyzed using the Generalized Moment of Methods (GMM) in STATA 15. The financial reform indicators: financial deepening (FDP), domestic credit, market capitalization, liquidity and exchange rate have p-values less than 0.05 (5%) level of significance, thus implying that the financial reforms’ indicators affect the performance as proxied by the capacity utilization of the manufacturing firms in Nigeria. Although, the interest rate which is one of the indicators of financial reforms returns a p-value greater than 0.05 (5%) and thus not having significant effect on the performance of the firms. The study suggested that the manufacturing firms should put measures to optimize the use of accessible funds to ensure optimal capacity utilization, as this will translate into increased productivity, profitability, and financial stability. The government should vigorously pursue monetary policies to ensure the injection of funds into the financial sector, to enhance the capacity of deposit money banks to allocate more credit to the sector at affordable rates. This will enable the optimal operation of the manufacturing sector in Nigeria.

Interaction mechanism between dual-credit pricing and automobile manufacturers’ electrification decisions

The newly released dual-credit policy (DCP) in 2017 established a market-based credit trading scheme in China to facilitate the electrification transition of automobile manufacturers. However, it has not yet served its intended purpose perfectly. This study concerns the interaction between credit pricing and manufacturers’ electrification and develops a mathematical model of optimal investment timing and capacity utilization rate to investigate the traction mechanism and optimization strategy of the DCP. The results suggest that tightening the policy positively impacts electrification but does not necessarily lead to immediate investment by all manufacturers. Interestingly, while electrification leads firms to generate more credits to meet policy constraints, it promotes higher capacity utilization rates, resulting in equilibrium credit prices and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions potentially rising rather than falling. Furthermore, a novel government target indicator that includes economic and environmental aspects is introduced to help revise the DCP and advise automobile manufacturers on electrification decisions.

Equilibrium Pricing with Duality-Based Method: Approach for Market-Oriented Capacity Remuneration Mechanism

The crucial design elements of a good capacity remuneration mechanism are market orientation, insurance of long-term power system adequacy, and optimal cross-border generation capacity utilization. Having in mind these design elements, this research aims to propose a financially fair pricing mechanism that will guarantee enough new capacity and will not present state aid. The proposed capacity remuneration mechanism is an easy-to-implement linear program problem presented in its primal and dual form. The shadow prices in the primal problem and dual variables in the dual problem are used to calculate the prices of firm capacity which is capacity needed for long-term power system adequacy under capacity remuneration mechanism. In order to test if the mechanism ensures sufficient new capacity under fair prices, the mechanism is tested on the European Network of Transmission System Operators for Electricity (ENTSO-E) regional block consisting of Austria, Slovenia, Hungary, and Croatia with simulation conducted for a period of one year with a one-hour resolution and for different scenarios of the credible critical events from a standpoint of security of supply; different amounts of newly installed firm capacity; different short-run marginal costs of newly installed firm capacity; and different capacity factors of newly installed firm capacity. Test data such as electricity prices and electricity load are referred to the year 2018. The results show that the worst-case scenario for Croatia is an isolated system scenario with dry hydrology that results with high values of indicators expected energy not served (EENS), loss of load expectation (LOLE), and loss of load probability (LOLP) for Croatia. Therefore, new capacity of several hundred MW is needed to stabilize these indicators at lower values. Price for that capacity depends on the range of installed firm capacity and should be in range of 1000–7000 €/MW/year for value of lost load (VoLL) in Croatia of 1000 €/MWh and 3000–22,000 €/MW/year for VoLL of 3100 €/MWh that correlates with prices from already established capacity markets. The presented methodology can assist policymakers, regulators, and market operators when determining capacity remuneration mechanism rules and both capacity and price caps. On the other hand, it can help capacity market participants to prepare the most suitable and near-optimal bids on capacity markets.

Capacity of Corridor Lines After Modernization

The aim of the paper is to select a suitable comparative methodology for assessing the impact of modernization of a specific line section, which is part of the EU international railway corridor, based on the knowledge of methodologies for determining the capacity of railway infrastructure. Some construction measures may have a negative impact on the timetable stability in the future, as well as on the ability to accept new traffic flows from other modes of transport in line with EU transport policy. Subsequently, it is necessary to propose measures for optimal capacity utilization. The section Žilina - Vrútky in Slovakia, which is part of the 5th International Corridor of the TEN-T network, was selected for the case study.

An Approach to Estimate Lithium-Ion Battery State of Charge Based on Adaptive Lyapunov Super Twisting Observer

To increase lifespan and optimize capacity utilization of lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery, it is imperative to predict its states accurately. This paper primarily focuses on offering an improved solution for estimating one of the most important battery states known as state of charge (SOC). After extensive analysis of the current state-of-the-art methods, we propose a new adaptive observer based approach for precise estimation of battery SOC using super twisting algorithm. The proposed approach avoids overestimation of gains while ensuring finite-time convergence of the states. For choosing the associated adaptive gains, it does not demand any information on upper bounds of the uncertainty and its derivative, except for their existence. Unlike most of the sliding mode methods employed for SOC estimation, the proposed approach provides continuous control injection resulting in reduced chattering and eliminates the need for low pass filter that leads to improved accuracy and response time. Lyapunov stability theory is utilized to prove the robustness and the error convergence of the proposed observer. The presented algorithm is executed on a lithium-polymer battery and the obtained results demonstrate that it outperforms the well-established approaches in terms of accuracy, chattering, robustness, computational complexity, and convergence time.

Simulation modeling for optimal production planning using Tecnomatix software

Efficient use of production capacity is an important complex of engineering tasks. Faced with the need to modernize production in the face of high competition and changing customer needs, company owners are forced to test new engineering solutions. Maximizing the existing production capacity plays a fundamental role in maintaining competitiveness and improving the efficiency of resource use in the production of electronic equipment. Electronic equipment manufacturing uses a make-to-order strategy and has a large number of variants of the product in a very small batch. But it is a problem of implementing the standard solution for efficient use of production capacities. Using simulation methods allows one to make informed decisions on using planning and scheduling in small-batch make-to-order production. We describe the process of developing a simulation model of the assembly shop of electronic production using Tecnomatix Plant Simulation software. The focus is on the search for the optimal capacity utilization of the workshop. The created model allows getting detailed statistics about various aspects of functioning of the workshop, depending on the input data.

Value stream mapping method for development of a dynamic model of capacity utilization

For multi-product small-scale manufacturing, for example the production of electronic equipment, the searching of methods and tools for production planning is relevant. One of the basic tools for planning is the model of enterprise capacity utilization. The purpose of this research is to develop a model and software allowed the company to calculate the optimal capacity utilization. The paper considers the use of value stream mapping method for development of a manufacturing dynamic model. This method allows creating the interaction logic and collecting data and parameters for each system components. The purpose of the value stream analysis is to find a transit solution from the current production state to a more efficient, which allows loading the production capacity in optimal mode. In the analysis, the manufacturing data of the finished products assembly shop of a radio-electronic enterprise is used. According to the results of use the proposed method, the duration of the assembly process was significantly reduced, which makes it possible to equalize the load of work centers and to reduce the volume of unfinished production.

Low-risk bypassing of machine failure scenarios in automotive industry press shops by releasing overall capacity of the production networks

Driven by lean manufacturing and technological progresses, the heterarchic and highly interdependent press-shop production networks in the automotive industry hold heavily-reduced redundancies at machine level. In these environments, even short-term machine or tool failure carry risks that can hardly be predicted, since single sites cannot usually continue to compensate incidents autonomously.This paper introduces a new optimization model for integrated machine scheduling with logistics planning at press-shop network level. The approach enables optimal capacity utilization for overcoming machine unavailability, and supports decision management for reconfiguring short-term production plans. Furthermore, the comprehensive integration of suppliers and subcontractors within the holistic concept is illustrated.

Design of a stepless torque converter for heavy trucks

The design of the stepless torque converter for heavy trucks is suggested. The stepless torque converter consists of two series-connected hydromechanical differentials. In the proposed design, automatic stepless control of kinematic and power parameters is carried out in the absence of any control system; simplicity of design options is achieved. The proposed stepless torque converter is able to cover the control range of both passenger cars and heavy trucks. The comparative analysis of designs structures in stepless transmissions produced by the modern automobile industry in different countries shows high degree of the design and technological continuity in relation to the existing production, high degree of standardization and much smaller production cost. The stepless torque converter allows the engine to operate with the equal capacity when changing the external load, which leads to an optimal capacity utilization and, accordingly, to a significant reduction in fuel consumption.

State-of-Charge Balancing Control for ON/OFF-Line Internal Cells Using Hybrid Modular Multi-Level Converter and Parallel Modular Dual L-Bridge in a Grid-Scale Battery Energy Storage System

Cell state-of-charge (SoC) balancing within a battery energy-storage system (BESS) is the key to optimizing capacity utilization of a BESS. Many cell SoC balancing strategies have been proposed; however, control complexity and slow SoC convergence remain as key issues. This paper presents two strategies to achieve SoC balancing among cells: main balancing strategy (MBS) using a cascaded hybrid modular multi-level converter (CHMMC) and a supplementary balancing strategy (SBS) using a cascaded parallel modular dual L-bridge (CPMDLB). The control and monitoring of individual cells with a reduction in the component count and the losses of BESS are achieved by integrating each individual cell into an L-bridge instead of an H-bridge. The simulation results demonstrate a satisfactory performance of the proposed SoC balancing strategy. In this result, SoC balancing convergence point for the cells/modules is achieved at 1000 min when cell-prioritized MBS-CHMMC works without SBS-CPMDLB and at 216.7 min when CPMBS-CHMMC works together with SBS-CPMDLB and when the duration required reduces by 78.33 %. Similarly, a substantial improvement in SoC balancing convergence point for the cells/modules is achieved when module-prioritized MBS-CHMMC works together with SBS-CPMDLB; the duration needed to reach the SoC balancing convergence point for the cells/modules is achieved after 333.3 and 183.3 min.

Outsourcing decisions – the case of parallel production

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to investigate an underexplored aspect of outsourcing involving a mixed strategy in which parallel production is continued in-house at the same time as outsourcing occurs. Design/methodology/approach – The study applied a multiple case study approach and drew on qualitative data collected through in-depth interviews with wood product manufacturing companies. Findings – The paper posits that there should be a variety of mixed strategies between the two governance forms of “make” or “buy.” In order to address how companies should consider the extent to which they outsource, the analysis was structured around two ends of a continuum: in-house dominance or outsourcing dominance. With an in-house-dominant strategy, outsourcing complements an organization's own production to optimize capacity utilization and outsource less cost-efficient production, or is used as a tool to learn how to outsource. With an outsourcing-dominant strategy, in-house production helps maintain complementary competencies and avoids lock-in risk. Research limitations/implications – This paper takes initial steps toward an exploration of different mixed strategies. Additional research is required to understand the costs of different mixed strategies compared with insourcing and outsourcing, and to study parallel production from a supplier viewpoint. Practical implications – This paper suggests that managers should think twice before rushing to a “me too” outsourcing strategy in which in-house capacities are completely closed. It is important to take a dynamic view of outsourcing that maintains a mixed strategy as an option, particularly in situations that involve an underdeveloped supplier market and/or as a way to develop resources over the long term. Originality/value – The concept of combining both “make” and “buy” is not new. However, little if any research has focussed explicitly on exploring the variety of different types of mixed strategies that exist on the continuum between insourcing and outsourcing.

Perfusion seed cultures improve biopharmaceutical fed‐batch production capacity and product quality

Volumetric productivity and product quality are two key performance indicators for any biopharmaceutical cell culture process. In this work, we showed proof-of-concept for improving both through the use of alternating tangential flow perfusion seed cultures coupled with high-seed fed-batch production cultures. First, we optimized the perfusion N-1 stage, the seed train bioreactor stage immediately prior to the production bioreactor stage, to minimize the consumption of perfusion media for one CHO cell line and then successfully applied the optimized perfusion process to a different CHO cell line. Exponential growth was observed throughout the N-1 duration, reaching >40 × 10(6) vc/mL at the end of the perfusion N-1 stage. The cultures were subsequently split into high-seed (10 × 10(6) vc/mL) fed-batch production cultures. This strategy significantly shortened the culture duration. The high-seed fed-batch production processes for cell lines A and B reached 5 g/L titer in 12 days, while their respective low-seed processes reached the same titer in 17 days. The shortened production culture duration potentially generates a 30% increase in manufacturing capacity while yielding comparable product quality. When perfusion N-1 and high-seed fed-batch production were applied to cell line C, higher levels of the active protein were obtained, compared to the low-seed process. This, combined with correspondingly lower levels of the inactive species, can enhance the overall process yield for the active species. Using three different CHO cell lines, we showed that perfusion seed cultures can optimize capacity utilization and improve process efficiency by increasing volumetric productivity while maintaining or improving product quality.

Reliable Capacity Planning Despite Uncertain Disassembly, Regeneration and Reassembly Workloads by Using Statistical and Mathematical Approaches – Validation in Subsidiaries of a Global MRO Company with Operations in Asia, Europe and North America

The MRO industry faces substantial challenges with regard to the capacity planning of disassembly and reassembly work. This is due to the unknown workloads when regenerating complex investment goods and is caused, in particular, by the uncertain degree of disassembly and the complex challenges of reassembly. Forecasting techniques based on Bayesian networks are developed along with mathematical models which optimize capacity utilization, job order and the resulting costs. The approaches are tested and validated in conjunction with an MRO company with global operations. The results show possibilities for enhancing the planning processes and are found to be transferable on an international scale regardless of sociocultural and process differences.