A Framework for Process Planning, Scheduling and Control under Mass Customization

Framework for Computer-Aided Process Planning, Scheduling and Control for Mass Customization (MC) is described in this paper. This constitutes a form of MC using one piece flow (mass production) to product variations on a number of different kinds of products (customization). The framework uses the concept of information templates or models and a rule-based system to generate manufacturing instructions. The templates combine the knowledge of bill-of-materials and resources while applying constraints to ensure the resulting custom product conforms to performance specifications. The feasibility and effectiveness of the framework and concepts are empirically validated by a case study implementation at a company that mass produces customized windows and doors in Calgary, Canada..