Toshiba's Notebook Computer Assembly Line

Toshihiro Nakamura, manufacturing engineering section manager, is examining the prototype assembly process sheet $($shown in Exhlbit $6\mathrm{.}8)$ for the newest subnotebook computer model. With every new model introduced, management felt that the assembly line had to Increase productivity and lower costs, usually resulting in changes to the assembly process. When a new model is designed, considerable attention is directed toward reducing the number of components and simplifying parts production and assembly requirements. This new computer was a marvel of high$-$tech, low$-$cost innovation and should glve Toshiba an advantage during the upcoming fall$/$winter selling season.

Production of the subnotebook is scheduled to begin in $10$ days. Initial production for the new model is to be $150$ units per day, increasing to $255$ units per day the following week $($management thought that eventually production would reach $320$ units per day$).$

Assembly lines at the plant normally are staffed by $10$ operators who work at a $14\mathrm{.}4-$meter$-$long assembly line. The line is organized in a straight line with workers shoulder to shoulder on one side. The line can accommodate up to $12$ operators if there is a need. The line normally operates for $7\mathrm{.}5$ hours a day $($employees work from $8$:$15$ A$.$M$.$ to $5$:$00$ P$.$M$.$ and regular hours Include one hour of unpald lunch and $15$ minutes of scheduled breaks$).$ It is possible to run one, two, or three hours of overtime, but employees need at least three days' notice for planning purposes.