RFID-enabled track and traceability in job-shop scheduling environment

This study presents an RFID-based traceability approach to improve production scheduling. An in-depth study for a manufacturer is conducted to explore scheduling options enabled by an RFID-based traceability system. We propose a novel information visibility-based scheduling (VBS) rule that utilizes information generated from the real-time traceability systems for tracking work in processes (WIPs), parts and components, and raw materials to adjust production schedules. We then evaluate the performance of this information visibility-based schedule against the classical scheduling rules. The results of the simulation suggest that an RFID-based scheduling rule generates better performance compared to traditional scheduling rules with regard to cycle time, machine utilizations, backlogs, and penalty costs. We also observe that the value of this information visibility is more relevant when the demand varies widely and/or operational disruptions occur. (C) 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.