Modeling and analysis of manufacturing systems

In this course, we treat quantitative models to design, control and optimize discrete manufacturing systems. In particular, we focus on analytical models and approximations to evaluate the performance of manufacturing systems where capacity restrictions play a dominant role.

The course consists of two parts. In the first part, the denoted chapters of the books of Hopp and Spearman, and Harchol-Balter are treated. In this part, we develop a queueing framework to model fairly general manufacturing systems, and focus on key performance metrics such as throughput, manufacturing lead times and work-in-progress levels. Hence, this framework is used to support design and control issues in manufacturing networks.

The second part of the course is done in parallel to the first part. In this second part, groups of 3-4 students receive a specific assignment on advanced topics. Assignments have a research character and explore the state of the art on those topics. Examples of topics are analytic evaluation techniques for finite buffers, flexible workforce capacity planning, fleet-sizing decisions via closed queueing networks, stochastic modeling of intra-logistic systems, and the effect of cross-trained workers on the capacity of production lines.

1. Students know the basics about design, control, and planning of discrete manufacturing systems
2. Students are able to analyze and design manufacturing systems by quantitative models and approximations
3. Students understand the 'physics' of general make-to-order and make-to-stock systems
4. Students are able to apply queueing theory to evaluate, design and optimize manufacturing systems
5. Students are able to read and understand state of the art scientific literature on advanced topics

You must meet one of the following collections of requirements

• Collection 1
• Completed Final examination Bsc program
• Collection 2
• Completed Pre-Master

• M. Harchol-Balter. `Performance Modeling and Design of Computer Systems: Queueing Theory in Action’ Cambridge University Press, NY, 2013 (e-book available at TU/e library). Chapters 13, 14, 15, 17, 18, 19, 23
• Handouts
• W.J. Hopp and M.L.Spearman, 'Factory Physics', third edition, McGraw-Hill, Boston, 2007, Chapters 0, 1, 6, 14, 18