Flow Lines with Rework Loops and Machine-Specific Processing Times

Abstract

In this section, the case of machine-specific deterministic processing times is studied. Machine-specific processing times are especially important in networks with split and/or merge operations. The reason is that these operations lead to an uneven distribution of the workload. The workload of a rework station, for example, is usually smaller than those of a station in the main part of a transfer line unless all parts require rework operations. Another possibility is that in a system two (slow) machines operate in parallel and that a merge in the flow of material is required downstream of the two machines. It is therefore important to have a tool that can take these machine-specific processing times into account.