A Markov process discrete in both time and space is used to establish a mathematical model for the analysis of delays associated with materials handling at conveyor-serviced production work stations. The model design assumes the physical ability to load processed units into conveyor spaces from which unprocessed units have just been removed.A set of realistic, simplified work rules applicable in a wide range of industrial applications is provided; consideration is given to the effect of a reserve and a bank to contain unprocessed and processed units; charts and numerical data are provided to show average delay and inprocess inventory at the work station for typical values of the several parameters involved.
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