The Effects of Manufacturing Automation on the Surge and Mobilization Capabilities of the Gas Turbine Engine Industry.
Abstract
This thesis determine the effects of manufacturing automation on the surge and mobilization capabilities of the gas turbine engine industry. Five specific manufacturing characteristics are investigated: labor, flexibility, manufacturing inputs, equipment utilization, and lead time. The combined information showed mostly positive effects on surge and mobilization. Some areas showed no effect due to automation and the only negative effect was in one aspect of mobilization. Both companies reported an increased reliance on foreign suppliers for equipment and machinery, which would hamper their ability to expand their facilities during mobilization. Positive effects are anticipated for both surge and mobilization through increased flexibility, reduced labor requirements, and reduced manufacturing inputs requirements. Finally, the positive effects on these characteristics combined, are expected to significantly reduce the lead time required to deliver engine components and thereby for the engines themselves.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 1984
- Accession Number
- ADA147295
Entities
People
- F. E. Dressel
- V. F. Gaul
Organizations
- Air Force Institute of Technology