Capacity planning model for a cabinetry manufacturing company

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One of the main challenges that Essence Cabinets in particular and the offsite construction domain in generalare facing is a production capacity problem. This includes gaining knowledge of the number of product typesthat can be produced in a given time span and the number of resources available in a given production system.A better understanding of the production capacity available, as well as the capacity required for each producttype, will empower the industry partner to optimize resource allocation, leading to improved time efficiencydue to higher resource utilization, and to satisfy due dates for each job. This research will be carried out in sixstages in order to analyze and streamline the production line, identify production bottlenecks, and determine aproduction capacity model: (1) study historical data to establish cabinetry system of systems; (2) benchmark theexisting production process; (3) develop a comprehensive simulation model of the production line; (4)determine the available production capacity; (5) develop KPIs for measuring the man-hour requirements perproduct type; and (6) establish a strategy for future research and development. Opportunities for developing adrafting and design tool for kitchen cabinets will be explored, aiming to help the industry partner to maximizeits resources. The highly qualified personnel working on this project will gain both direct industry experienceand theoretical expertise in the areas of lean, data analysis, construction planning, simulation, and projectmanagement techniques in the course of this project. In terms of benefits to Canada, one of the most commonchallenges that construction manufacturers face is capacity planning, which includes gaining better insight intothe maximum number of product types that can be produced in a specific mix, in a given time span, andconsidering available resources. The Canadian modular manufacturing industry thus stands to benefit fromresearch that applies automated modelling tools and construction management principles to the planning,scheduling, and monitoring of the production process.