global production networks

This article deals with flexibility of production and distribution processes within global production networks. It introduces the concept of autonomous products, classifies different types of flexibility and develops according object models. The decision alternatives resulting from the increased flexibility are modelled as a mathematical function. Different decision methods are proposed for decision rendering and selecting between these alternatives. Exemplary applications in some scenarios are proposed.

A continuously growing number of product variants and the configuration of globally operating production networks lead to a high number of process variants within these networks. Thus, internal complexity is added to the business. While modularization and standardization are state-of-the-art with regard to the actual product in order to manage complexity a lack of respective actions has to be considered in the field of manufacturing engineering. However, controlling these processes’ complexity and variety is a critical factor of success, too. The presented approach researches influencing factors on standardization of manufacturing engineering processes in a global network. It is based on practical experiences in the commercial vehicle industry. Taking into account different product and process related requirements an optimal degree of standardization can be deduced.