Capacity Allocation in Flexible Production Networks: Theory and Applications
研究在柔性生产网络中如何配置和分配容量以满足产品填充率要求，揭示了长链网络在容量效率上接近完全柔性网络，并应用于最后一公里配送和半导体生产规划。
In many production environments, a fixed network of capacity is shared flexibly between multiple products with random demands. What is the best way to configure the capacity of the production network and to allocate the available capacity to meet predetermined fill rate requirements? We develop a new approach for network capacity configuration and allocation and characterize the relationship between the capacity of the network and the attainable fill rate levels for the products, taking into account the flexibility structure of the network. This builds on a new randomized allocation mechanism to deliver the desired services. We use this theory to investigate the connection between the flexibility structure and capacity configuration. We provide a new perspective to the well-known phenomenon that “long chain is almost as good as the fully flexible network”: for given target fill rates, the required capacity level in a long-chain network is close to that in a fully flexible network and is much lower than a dedicated system. We apply these insights and techniques on problems arising in the design of last-mile delivery operations and in semiconductor production planning, using real data from two companies. This paper was accepted by Terry Taylor, operations management.