A SIMULATION ANALYSIS OF THE EFFECTIVENESS OF DRUM-BUFFER-ROPE SCHEDULING IN FURNITURE MANUFACTURING

Simulation has proven to be an important computer tool in analyzing ne w manufacturing approaches. In this paper we use simulation models to compare a new approach to manufacturing with current practices. The ne w approach is referred to as the Drum-Buffer-Rope (DBR) method of sync hronous manufacturing. We discuss the DBR approach and demonstrate the application of DBR in a furniture manufacturing case example. Simulat ion models are used to compare the DBR approach with the typical syste m of production control referred to as a cutting approach. The simulat ion analysis indicates considerable savings in makespan are possible w hen DBR is used in place of the cutting approach.