Abstract
The dynamic analysis of disruption transmission in networks of closed loops formed by machines and intermediate buffers is of vital importance in most production systems. Nevertheless, little research has been done on optimisation in this field. This study analyses the disruption time transmission in a generic assembly system, which has been modelled as a network of closed loops of machines and intermediate buffers. In addition, this modelling has been used to analyse a real automobile assembly line, taking into account variables that have not previously been considered in the literature, such as working regimes of machines, their cycle times, capacities of the intermediate buffers and their minimum contents. The optimal configuration of the intermediate buffers is analysed. Dynamic outlines of these kinds of assembly systems are proposed in order to maximise the transmission of disruption times and, hence, their availability. For this purpose, an algorithm for analysing and optimising availability in this kind of manufacturing system has also been developed.