The use of a multiple attribute decision-making method and value stream mapping in solving the pacemaker location problem

Abstract

This research focuses on solving the multistage processes pacemaker location problem. The aim is to implement lean continuous flow that can satisfy both a high service-level and low inventory cost. Simultaneously, we consider sophisticated variability, such as multi-products, random setup, random breakdown, yield loss, and batch processes, and other contingencies. The problem can be solved by a combination of multiple attribute decision-making and value stream mapping. A lean-pull production strategy adopts two work-in-process setups, and one supermarket as a buffer to create continuous flow. A practical thin film transistor-liquid crystal display manufacturing case study is utilised to illustrate the proposed method. The simulation results indicate that the inventory cost was reduced by over 57% after implementing a lean-pull production strategy.

Keywords:

• lean manufacturing
• multiple-attribute decision-making
• pacemaker
• pull systems
• simulation applications
• Taguchi methods
• value stream mapping

Acknowledgments

The authors thank the anonymous company for providing the case study. The anonymous reviewers are thanked for providing helpful comments that greatly improved the manuscript. This work was supported, in part, by the National Science Council of Taiwan, Republic of China, under grant NSC-98-2221-E-006-349-MY3.