Analysis, Monitoring, and Diagnosis of the Manufacturing Flow

Monitoring is continuous observation of the flow of orders through the manufacturing process by means of key figures and graphics. This chapter describes first how to organize and analyze a work shop, then explains the concept, and shows authentic results of such a continuous monitoring system. The outputs of such a system can be interpreted with a diagnostic system, of which the basic theory is given. Examples of color graphics taken from experimental and commercial systems illustrate possible outputs of monitoring systems. General rules on how to improve the manufacturing flow, and how existing production planning systems can be better used, are also given.