Approach for the Evaluation of Production Structures

Abstract : Turbulent environment evoking intrinsic complexity of production systems dares in particular series production. As a result, sophisticated structures for production are inevitable to manage these challenges. Due to path dependency, stepwise optimization of production processes leads to pseudo-optimums. During factory operation, minor changes of the production program may result gradually in a suboptimal configuration of the production system. Production systems are forced to cope with these changes by adjusting their temporal and/or spatial structure. For the purpose of an adequate adaption, all options for adjustment should be considered. The evaluation of proper adaption requires suitable figures that assess the appropriateness of the production structure regarding the pending tasks and demands. This paper introduces an approach that enables a deduction of adequate measures. It aims at matching the temporal and spatial structure with the production program by revealing operational and strategic gaps.