In Problem 16.17, suppose that a two-stage line were to be designed, with an equal number of stations in each stage. Work content time will be divided evenly between the two stages. The storage buffer between the stages will have a capacity = 3 Td/Tc. Assume a constant repair distribution.
(a) For this two-stage line, determine the number of workstations that should be included in each stage of the line to maximize production rate.
(b) What is the production rate and line efficiency for this line configuration?
(c) What is the buffer storage capacity?