Scalable Production Concepts and Environments

Research Focus Area 7 develops and logistically evaluates scalable production concepts and environments for the economical manufacturing of large components. This encompasses process design, planning, and control, alongside risk assessment of such production systems.

Based on the research findings, a reference model for production planning and control (PPC) will be established, applicable to components of varying sizes and supporting optimal organisational forms of production.

Selecting an appropriate production principle – such as site assembly, workshop, or flow production – presents a particular challenge in practice, as each variant entails specific advantages and disadvantages. An unsuitable choice can lead to efficiency losses or even production failures. Accordingly, various production principles are characterised by relevant key performance indicators, including floor space utilisation, work-in-progress inventory, and lead time.

The objective is to develop an evaluation matrix enabling flexible selection of the most suitable production principle according to prevailing order and production conditions, while accounting for constraints in material supply and return.