Simulation modelling and analysis of a JIT production system

Abstract

With a view to examine the effects of stochastic demand and processing times, and the number of Kanbans on system performance, we simulate a 9-workstation, sequential production line. To determine the number of Kanbans required, the averages and the variances of performance measures are computed. It is found that the system performs best with four Kanbans, while keeping variances of the performance measures minimum. System behaviour is also examined for different demand loading factors and Kanbans. Future research directions are given.

Notes

MAYANK CHATURVEDI is a Process Engineer with Union Camp Corporation at Franklin, Virginia (USA). He received his Bachelor of Engineering degree in Pulp and Paper Engineering from the University of Roorkee (India) in 1983 and worked as a Process Engineer with Ballarpur Industries Limited, India from 1983 to 1986. He received his Master of Science degree in Operations Research (1990) and Master of Science degree in Paper Science and Engineering (1991) from Western Michigan University, Kalamazoo, Michigan (USA). His research interests include Simulation Modelling of Stochastic Systems, Just-In-Time, Flexible Manufacturing Systems, Process Simulation and Optimization. He has published in the Tappi Journal and is a member of ORSA, TIMS, AIIE, AIChE, TAPPI.

DAMODAR Y. GOLHAR is Associate Professor of Management at Haworth College of Business, Western Michigan University, Kalamazoo, Michigan (USA) and teaches Management Science and Production Management courses. He received Bachelor of Engineering (Electrical) degree from Marathwada University, India in 1973; M. Tech. (Industrial Engineering and Operations Engineering) degree from Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur, India in 1976; M.S.E. (1979) and Ph.D. (1983) degrees in Industrial and Operations Engineering from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan (USA). His research interest include the Just-In-Time philosophy, Process Optimization and Sequential Analysis. He has published several articles in the following journals: IIE Transactions, International Journal of Production Research, Journal of Quality Technology, Sequential Analysis, Medical Decision Making, Production and Inventory Management Journal, and Journal of Small Business Management. He is a member of many professional societies.