AUTOMATIC TRANSFER LINES WITH BUFFER STOCKS

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Abstract
The efficiency of an automatic transfer line can be increased by dividing the line into a number of stages and providing buffer stores between the stages. The results of a theoretical study of the effect of buffer stocks on automatic fixed cycle in line transfer machines are reported. It is shown how the improvement in efficiency depends on the number of stages, the relative failure rate of the stages, the capacity of the buffers and the distribution of stage repair times. The optimum way to operate the line is never purposely to stop a stage to fill the buffers. Using practical data on transfer line performance, the improvement in efficiency which would be obtained through providing buffers is indicated.

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