The routing function in a production system design is concerned with the

ANS:B - machine utilisation.

Machine utilization refers to the degree to which manufacturing machinery or equipment is used effectively to produce output within a specified period. It is a key performance metric in manufacturing operations and reflects how efficiently machines are utilized to meet production demands. Here's a detailed explanation of machine utilization:

1. Definition: Machine utilization is a measure of the amount of time that manufacturing machines are actively engaged in production activities relative to the total available time. It is typically expressed as a percentage and represents the ratio of actual machine operating time to the total available time, including scheduled production time and any planned downtime for maintenance, setup, or other non-production activities.
2. Calculation: Machine utilization can be calculated using the following formula: Machine Utilization (%)=Actual Machine Operating Time/Total Available Time ​×100
   • Actual Machine Operating Time: The total amount of time the machine is actively running and producing output.
   • Total Available Time: The total time during which the machine is available for production, including scheduled production time and any planned downtime.
3. Factors Affecting Machine Utilization: Several factors influence machine utilization, including:
   • Downtime: Unplanned downtime due to equipment breakdowns, maintenance, repairs, or setup changeovers reduces machine utilization.
   • Production Speed: Faster production rates increase machine utilization by maximizing output within a given time period.
   • Efficiency: Improving equipment efficiency through preventive maintenance, optimization of machine settings, and operator training can enhance machine utilization.
   • Workload Balancing: Ensuring a balanced workload across machines and workstations helps maintain consistent machine utilization levels.
   • Production Planning: Effective production scheduling and sequencing of jobs can optimize machine utilization by minimizing idle time and maximizing throughput.
4. Importance: Machine utilization is critical for achieving production efficiency, maximizing output, and minimizing production costs. High machine utilization rates indicate efficient use of manufacturing resources and contribute to increased productivity and profitability. Monitoring machine utilization allows manufacturers to identify opportunities for improvement, optimize production processes, and make informed decisions about equipment investments and capacity planning.
5. Performance Evaluation: Machine utilization is often used as a key performance indicator (KPI) in manufacturing performance evaluation and benchmarking. By tracking machine utilization over time and comparing it against established targets or industry benchmarks, manufacturers can assess their operational performance, identify areas for improvement, and implement strategies to enhance productivity and competitiveness.

In summary, machine utilization is a critical measure of manufacturing efficiency that reflects the effective use of machinery to meet production demands. By optimizing machine utilization, manufacturers can enhance productivity, reduce costs, and improve overall operational performance.