Joint modelling of the order-dependent parts supply strategies sequencing, kitting and batch supply for assembly lines: insights from industrial practice

Abstract

Parts can be supplied from warehouses to assembly lines via several production-order-independent and -dependent parts supply strategies. Order-dependent parts supply strategies sequencing, kitting and batch supply share enough similarities that allow joint modelling in picking order planning and execution, whereas line stocking, just-in-time, just-in-sequence and just-in-sequence kit supply require separate modelling. Joint modelling is the precondition for setting up a software system in industrial practice, covering multiple parts supply strategies efficiently. With similar input–output relations and process steps, joint algorithms can be used. This work presents insights from a software system for sequencing, kitting and batch supply implemented in the automotive industry. The main process steps modelled are order-dependent part requests determination, bundling of part requests to picking orders, scheduling and release, and picking and transportation execution. Given the prevalence of assembly lines, sharing knowledge about successful modelling of parts supply strategies is crucial both for practitioners and researchers.