Mathematical modeling and analysis of flexible production lines

• Main Author: Jang, Young Jae, 1974-
• Other Authors: Stanley B. Gershwin.
• Format: Others
• Language: English
• Published: Massachusetts Institute of Technology 2008
• Subjects: Mechanical Engineering.
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/1721.1/39841

Thesis (Ph. D.)--Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Dept. of Mechanical Engineering, 2007. === This electronic version was submitted by the student author. The certified thesis is available in the Institute Archives and Special Collections. === Includes bibliographical references (p. 165-[166]). === We present a model and analysis of a production line that processes different part types on unreliable machines which operate according to a priority rule. The production line consists of machines separated by storage areas in which parts flow in a fixed sequence. A machine operates on the highest priority part whenever possible, and only operates on lower priority parts when unable to produce the higher priority parts. Part priorities are static and are a function only of part type. The purpose of this thesis is to present mathematical formulations and algorithms for estimating production rates and average inventory levels for each part type in a flexible production line. The qualitative behavior of the multiple-part-type line under different supply and demand scenarios is described. === by Young Jae Jang. === Ph.D.