Parts on Demand: Evaluation of Approaches to Achieve Flexible Manufacturing Systems for Navy Parts on Demand. Volume 1

摘要

The scope of this study, sponsored by the Office of Naval Research and the Naval Supply Systems Command, focused on reducing spare part supply and procurement problems by using a 'Parts-on-Demand' (POD) system that was defined by the study in these terms: 'a concept using advanced manufacturing technology to produce parts as needed and to reduce cost and production lead time in small batch production'. The solution approach is based on using advanced manufacturing technologies capable of reducing cost and production lead time for low volume manufacturing. A major national program, using the concept of POD, is recommended to advance design, fabrication, test, and assembly technology for low volume production. The Navy POD program objectives were developed to foster a transition to very flexible manufacturing by encouraging both changes in vendor's manufacturing technology to support low volume production and in military supply system policy and practices to more effectively employ its benefits. The emphasis of this study was on the technological issues involved and the role the Navy can play in stimulating research and development needed to advance manufacturing technology to support flexible manufacturing system to produce low volume replenishment parts. POD, however, is not to be imagined as a stand-alone system and will certainly not work in isolation. It must be gradually integrated into the current supply and procurement system, and modifications in policy and practice will be required for its effective implementation.