IIE Transactions articles from August 2004

IIE Transactions archives from August 2004

Subcontracting with availability guarantees: production control and capacity decisions.
August 1, 2004... 1. Introduction Subcontracting and outsourcing have been the subject of a growing number of studies in recent years. In this study, we focus on using subcontracting to achieve capacity flexibility. This is an effective strategy to cope...

A throughput model for carousel/VLM pods.
August 1, 2004... 1. Introduction The e-commerce movement of the late 1990s raised awareness about the need for more efficient order fulfillment systems and lead to a fundamental change in the supply chains of many companies (Fisher et al., 2000). Reduced...

Batch size modeling in a multi-item, discrete manufacturing system via an open queuing network.
August 1, 2004... 1. Introduction The batch sizing policy of a manufacturing system is directly related to the setup time. It is well known that it affects the throughput time and Work-In-Process (WIP) inventory level and thus it is an important factor to...

Performance analysis of production systems with rework loops.
August 1, 2004... 1. Introduction This paper studies production systems with rework loops. In many manufacturing plants, rework loops are often included for the repair and multiple processing of jobs. In the rework loops, defective parts are repaired and...

Robust reverse production system design for carpet recycling.
August 1, 2004... 1. Introduction Today a challenging transition is underway within highly competitive production systems. Supply chains are evolving from "open loop" unidirectional flows of materials, parts, and products from suppliers to end customers...

A statistical approach to tolerance evaluation for circles and cylinders.
August 1, 2004... 1. Introduction Regarding the association of manufacturing and inspection, Tandler (1984) said: "... the acts of making things and measuring them go hand in hand. Unfortunately, it is more satisfying to make things than to...