E-POLCA to control multi-product, multi-machine job shops

We propose a supporting framework for the material control system Paired-cell Overlapping Loops of Cards with Authorization (POLCA), which combines the advantages of push systems and pull systems. In our load based version of the POLCA control system, we rely on a multiproduct, multi-machine queueing network to determine release authorizations and allowed workloads. We report on our experiences in a metal shop, taken from Spicer Off-Highway Products Division, part of Dana Corporation. They are implementing an E-POLCA system in a paperless -cardless- environment.