The computerized operator-machine system (OMS) for the least cost combination of operators and machines

In designing a manufacturing system, we must determine not only the number of machines and operators but also how many machines we have to assign to an operator or a group of operators. To determine the right number of combinations for operators and machines, the author has developed the computerized Operator-Machine System (OMS). The system will determine the right number, by showing the percent (%) idle and percent (%) working for each of operators and machines for different combinations. OMS can also show step by step procedures of operators and machines chronologically, so that the operations analyst or the industrial engineer can visualize the operational sequence and the steady states of the operations. From this information, we can compute easily the cost for each alternative production system. The optimum combination of machines and operators is the combination that will result in the least cost for operating the production system.