Evaluation of Production Lines Considering the Ability to Respond to Demand Fluctuations

Abstract

In general, production line capability is assessed by efficiency. However, relying solely on efficiency is inadequate when addressing demand fluctuations. This paper proposes a “responsiveness” metric to evaluate the ability to handle demand changes based on the ratio of “range” of fluctuations and “time” required to respond. Additionally, presents a method for efficiency assessment that incorporates this metric and shows the results of experimental evaluation from automotive assembly line.