Integration of process planning and scheduling for outsourcing in the apparel industry

Abstract

Although outsourcing is a popular method for reducing manufacturing costs, many firms fail to take notice of the hidden pitfalls associated with delays in the delivery system. The objective of the paper is to develop a computer-aided process planning tool with a software called PPSGAR (Process Planning and Scheduling For Garment Manufacturing Unit), which takes into account the concept of integration of process planning and scheduling using an object-oriented paradigm for the apparel industry. It provides the management, prior to accepting an order, with a suggestion for the production cost and the due date combination by considering the shop-floor conditions. Also, it can provide suggestions for possible changes in the design of the garment in order to reduce the cost or shorten the delivery date. Process planning is achieved by adopting the Hybrid Variant-generative process planning method. Scheduling is done by Stochastic Assembly Line Balancing (SALB) methodology for the solution of a single-model assembly line balancing, in response to the stochastic environment. For validation of the system, the Software PPSGAR has been implemented successfully in a firm in the apparel industry in North Cyprus. © Textile Institute.