Flow line performance analysis and improvement

Abstract

This thesis is application-driven, aiming to improve overall performance of a flow line. Specifically, the goal is to increase production rate of the line and reduce average WIP between stations by optimization of existing facilities. The thesis provides a systematic way of evaluating the performance of a flexible manufacturing system, as well as a scientific approach to improve line performance step by step. At the same time, necessary assumptions are made based on the actual system and real situations at Sphinx Electronic Appliances Co. Ltd (For confidentiality related issues, all the names are fabricated and all the data are disguised). The thesis focuses on analysis and improvement of a certain flow line. However, a similar approach can also be applied to other flow lines.