production management

In the research project LUPO a hybrid simulation laboratory is build up. This combines the advantages of the computer simulation with those of a model factory. For the systematic recording, mapping and analysis of various production processes a procedure model has been created that responds to the special requirements (quick, flexible, effortless determination of informative results) of the project. A library of production objects facilitates the reutilisa tion of existing machines and hereby a reduction of simulation effort.

In a world of steady change, manufacturing companies face major challenges. They have to react quickly to an increasing competition and more and more individual customer requests. New technologies and organisational structures like RFID or decentralised and real-time based production control can deal with this issue successfully. The specific realization of selection and analysis of each production process of the company often approves to be difficult and cost intensive. Previous simulation approaches are frequently combined with high efforts in order to state credible propositions regarding suitability and economic efficiency. The present paper shows a new opportunity towards managing these disadvantages. Additionally, the advantages are combined with computer-based simulations of the model factory. A fast and flexible illustration of the analysed production processes is achieved.

Today, the logistics performance especially of manufacturing companies is becoming a distinctive success factor in the marketplace. Perceiving this development Siemens’ Electronics Manufacturing plant in Amberg (EWA) implemented a comprehensive logistics KPI system supporting the controlling of production processes. The tools used, however, fall short of considering the interdependencies between different logistics KPIs. The article reports on a project conducted in cooperation between EWA and the Institute for Production Systems and Logistics of Leibniz University at Hannover. Presenting the project’s approach, conclusions and resulting experiences, the theoretical background as well as the fundamental impact production operating curves can offer for the competitiveness of a manufacturing company are outlined.

In recent years dynamics in the automotive industry has increased rapidly. Beside a higher degree of customer orientation product life cycles become continuously shorter, whereby an over-all effect on Ramp-up and Phase-out Management can be stated. Because of an increasing amount of new model ranges Ramp-up Management has been well discussed during the last few years. In contrast, discussions about an efficient Phase-out Management are mostly still missing. This paper presents an approach focusing on the transparency of information considering the requirements of Production Phase-outs.

With the implementation of numerous modernization concepts an increasingly complicated system has emerged in the companies. Single concepts partly overlap or redundantly pursue similar targets under different headings. Some concepts even compete in their target dimensions. The tool Independencies Map systematically analyzes the correlation of existing concepts and searches for inconsistencies and incompatibilities between these concepts. This article presents a pragmatic tool, which is also applicable for small and medium enterprises thus enabling them to remove efficiency barriers by harmonizing the interaction of the individual concepts.

The strategically appropriate dimensioning of inventory in the process chain is of utmost importance for companies. In this context inventory is utilized to counterbalance variations of the behaviour of customers as well as delivery date or quantity deviations caused by suppliers. It is a huge challenge to dimension the inventory as to realize a high level of security but also low stocks. This article demonstrates the methodical approach, the outcome of the Logistic Stock Analysis, and the validation of planning methods showcased for a project at the electronic factory of Siemens, Amberg.

As the core of the added value the production meets new challenges. Against the background of new trends and changing market mechanism an adjustment of existing production structures is crucial. New sources for earning money can be found in the combination of different leverages which result finally in increasing the economic value added. The objective is to find a combination of above-average performance and cost leadership and to realize these in an integrated production concept. In these redesigned production systems above-average performance is based on the overall connection between methods, people and technologies over the whole supply chain.

Today, globalization is on the top of CEO’s agenda. Both, the unparalleled potential to grow into new markets as well as boosting the competitiveness of production are great opportunities making the globalization of production an imperative for successful companies. However, the risk and the complexity of that task require a dedicated approach to design, implement and manage the company’s network. Therefore, the article describes a basic project concept, major milestones and a promising scope of action for global production management.

In cooperation with seven industrial enterprises of different branches the institute of Production Systems and Logistics developed in the course of a research project an IT-System for the Logistic Controlling of Production Processes. The project was funded by the Stiftung Industrieforschung. The IT-System supports logisticians of enterprises by the logistic controlling of production processes and by associated planning and design of improvements.