Mathematical Problems in Engineering
Volume 2005 (2005), Issue 3, Pages 293-308
doi:10.1155/MPE.2005.293
Abstract
We derive a simple formula for the throughput (jobs produced per unit time) of a serial production line with workstations that are subject to random failures. The derivation is based on equations developed for a line flow model that takes into account the impact of finite buffers between workstations. The formula applies in the special case of a
line with identical workstations and buffers of equal size. It is a closed-form expression that shows the mathematical relationships between the system parameters, and that can be used to gain basic insight into system behavior at the initial design stage.