MODELING AND ANALYSIS OF WEAVING-PREPARATION SYSTEMS WITH RESPECT TO SMALL-LOT MANUFACTURING .1. PROBLEM DEFINITION

The implementation of quick-response manufacturing strategies in the t extile industry has led to the realization of smaller lot sizes for wo ven-fabric producers. In this first part of a two-part work, the effec ts of this shift are explored, and an approach for producing within a short-run environment is presented. A definition of small lot sizes is also developed for weaving preparation that holds for a wide range of product mixes. Basic models of the weaving-preparation processes as m ultistage flow shops are given for the purpose of design and analysis. Finally, a framework for the design of appropriate small-lot weaving- preparation systems is defined. In Part II of this work, the analysis component of this framework will be used to characterize the performan ce of weaving-preparation systems with respect to small-lot manufactur ing.