Just-in-time (JIT) production and process cycle time variability

Abstract

The effects of process cycle time variability on the performance of a zero inventory simulation model of a Just-In-Time Manufacturing and Production System (JITMPS) is investigated. Process cycle time variability does not adversely affect the performance of a Kanban- linked process structure. However, it does lengthen product cycle time and product throughput time, and lower system utilization on directly linked process structure. Modifying a directly linked process structure to include one accumulator with one unit of float between each individual process eliminates these adverse effects.