A Methodology to Describe Operating Characteristics of Assembly Systems

Abstract

A methodology for describing the operating characteristics of low volume (small lot) assembly systems is presented in this paper. Analytical models indicate that the deterministic assembly system is equivalent to a flow shop. A numerical approximation technique is applied to develop measures of performance for probabilistic systems. Results include identification of metering stations which control work flow and of potential inconsistencies between productivity and flow-time objectives. The impacts of scheduling policies that determine the intervals at which “mainframes” are launched into assembly, and the due dates for parts, are investigated. The strategy of setting due dates for parts is shown to have a significant influence over work-in-process levels and schedule performance in probabilistic systems.