Intermittent Production
Definition
Intermittent production is a manufacturing methodology in which several different products are produced on the same production line, though not simultaneously. Production line work for one product stops before work on a second product begins. This method maximizes productivity by utilizing the same equipment and facilities to produce different items.
Examples
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Automobile Manufacturing: A factory may produce different models of cars on the same assembly line. For example, the line produces SUVs in the morning and sedans in the afternoon.
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Consumer Electronics: A production line might be used to assemble several different types of electronic devices, such as smartphones and tablets, by altering the tools and processes involved.
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Appliances: A single production facility might switch production between refrigerators, washing machines, and microwaves, depending on demand.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What are the advantages of intermittent production?
- A: Flexibility in managing different products, efficient use of resources, and the ability to quickly switch production based on market demand.
Q2: What are the disadvantages of intermittent production?
- A: Increased complexity in planning and scheduling, potential downtime during changeovers, and higher levels of inventory management.
Q3: How does intermittent production differ from continuous production?
- A: Continuous production is a non-stop manufacturing process for a single product, while intermittent production involves producing different products sequentially on the same line.
Q4: What industries commonly use intermittent production?
- A: Automotive, electronics, apparel, and household appliances industries frequently adopt intermittent production due to diverse product ranges and fluctuating demands.
Q5: Are there specific tools required for intermittent production?
- A: Yes, fixtures, jigs, and setups may need to be modified or replaced when switching products to ensure quality and efficiency.
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Batch Production: Production method where products are manufactured in groups or batches rather than one at a time.
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Job Shop Production: A production process where small quantities of custom products are made to order, each having different requirements.
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Continuous Production: Non-stop production process focusing on manufacturing large quantities of a single product.
Online References
- Investopedia on Manufacturing Production
- The Manufacturing Institute
- Lean Manufacturing from The Lean Enterprise Institute
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- Manufacturing Planning and Control for Supply Chain Management, by F. Robert Jacobs, William L. Berry, D. Clay Whybark, Thomas E. Vollmann
- Fundamentals of Production Planning and Control, by Stephen N. Chapman
- The Toyota Production System: Beyond Large-Scale Production, by Taiichi Ohno
- Operations Management: Processes and Supply Chains, by Lee J. Krajewski, Manoj K. Malhotra, Larry P. Ritzman
Fundamentals of Intermittent Production: Production Planning and Control Basics Quiz
### What is intermittent production also known as?
- [ ] Continuous production
- [ ] Mass production
- [x] Job shop production
- [ ] Batch production
> **Explanation:** Intermittent production is similar in some aspects to job shop production, where customization and flexibility are needed to handle various products in small or varied volumes.
### What is a key benefit of intermittent production?
- [ ] Reduces labor costs to zero
- [ ] Only one type of product can be made
- [x] Flexibility in handling various products
- [ ] Everything is produced manually
> **Explanation:** The key benefit of intermittent production is its flexibility in handling different types of products using the same equipment and facilities.
### What is a potential downside of intermittent production?
- [x] Increased complexity in planning and scheduling
- [ ] Complete automation of processes
- [ ] Unavailability of resources
- [ ] Elimination of inventory needs
> **Explanation:** Intermittent production involves increased complexity in planning and scheduling due to the necessity of frequent equipment and process changes.
### In which industry is intermittent production NOT commonly used?
- [ ] Automotive
- [ ] Electronics
- [ ] Apparel
- [x] Agriculture
> **Explanation:** Agriculture typically does not use intermittent production techniques as it relies more heavily on continuous and seasonal processes.
### How does intermittent production increase productivity?
- [ ] By eliminating downtime
- [ ] By focusing on one product continuously
- [x] By producing different products in sequence
- [ ] By outsourcing all productions
> **Explanation:** Intermittent production increases productivity by maximizing the use of the production line for different products in sequence, thereby utilizing the same resources more efficiently.
### What is required when switching production lines in intermittent production?
- [x] Modifying or replacing fixtures and setups
- [ ] Hiring new personnel
- [ ] Reducing the speed of the production line
- [ ] Outsourcing production
> **Explanation:** When switching production lines for different products, it often requires modifying or replacing fixtures and setups to maintain quality and efficiency.
### What type of products is intermittent production best suited for?
- [ ] Single high-volume product
- [x] Diverse range of products
- [ ] Low-value products only
- [ ] Perishable goods
> **Explanation:** Intermittent production is best suited for a diverse range of products that require flexible production techniques.
### Which factor predominantly affects the planning complexities in intermittent production?
- [x] Switching between different product types
- [ ] Using automated machinery
- [ ] Streamlining a single product’s process
- [ ] Outsourcing production requirements
> **Explanation:** The planning complexities in intermittent production are primarily affected by the need to switch between different product types, requiring frequent changes to equipment and processes.
### What is a common tool used in intermittent production to handle different products?
- [x] Versatile jigs and fixtures
- [ ] Permanent setups
- [ ] Automated drones
- [ ] Hired contractors
> **Explanation:** Versatile jigs and fixtures are commonly used in intermittent production to handle the different requirements of various products.
### How does intermittent production adapt to market demands?
- [ ] It produces a single product without variation
- [ ] It eliminates the need for marketing
- [x] It allows switching production based on demand
- [ ] It always runs products in full batch without change
> **Explanation:** Intermittent production can adapt to fluctuating market demands by allowing the production of different products based on the current market needs.
Thank you for learning about intermittent production with our comprehensive guide and challenging quiz questions. Your understanding of production planning and control is invaluable to achieving operational excellence!
