Design and analysis of closed-loop capacity control for a multi-workstation production system

In this paper, a model is described that represents the dynamics of a multi-workstation production system that incorporates closed-loop production planning and control. The model is used to predict the response of the production system to work disturbances and the propagation of disturbances through the system. Capacity control designs are evaluated with respect to their removal of the effects of work disturbances and response to changing capacity demands in upstream workstations. Methods of control engineering are used to make the analysis tractable, as well as improve understanding and control of complex dynamic behavior.