|
A Mixed
Model Assembly line is configured to produce several models without
changeover. The mixed Model Line, as pioneered by Toyota,
is shown at right. A schedule specifies the proportion of each model
required for customer demand. In this example, the proportions are
25%, 25% and 50%.
Proper
sequencing of products smoothes the demand on upstream
suppliers even further. In this example, the sequence is:
RYGY-RYGY-RYGY...
-
Red- 1.0 Unit Every 2.0 Hours
-
Yellow- 1.0 Unit Every Hour
-
Green- 1.0 Unit Every 2.0 Hours
A mixed
model line may complicate line operations to some extent. However,
it streamlines and simplifies upstream operations as well as the
inventory, scheduling and transport system that connect the line
with these upstream operations. Among the benefits are:
-
Upstream Demand Is Steady
-
Machines Sized For Customer Demand
-
Simplified Scheduling Such As Kanban
-
Stable Labor Requirements
-
Simpler Transport
More>> |
