An optimization model for the determination of qualitative capacity requirements as part of a four level approach for the planning of production networks

Planning and design of companywide production networks are the challenges for many manufacturers in a globalized world. The overall planning task to be tackled is the optimal dimensioning of the network consisting of production sites and their economic interrelations. This complex task is divided into four sub-tasks according to the time frame of the decisions, scope of consideration and the decision hierarchy of the company. Mathematical optimization models are used to represent and solve the individual sub-problems. The model of the task on the top level is presented in detail. Coordination processes are defined to link the individual levels to a hierarchical overall process. This process is implemented into a prototype planning system and evaluated using case studies.