Artificial intelligence-based method for forecasting flowtime in job shops

Abstract

Purpose This paper aims to develop a method based on artificial intelligence capable of predicting the due date (DD) of job shops in real-time, aiming to assist in the decision-making process of industries. Design/methodology/approach This paper chooses to use the methodological approach Design Science Research (DSR). The DSR aims to build solutions based on technology to solve relevant issues, where its research results from precise methods in the evaluation and construction of the model. The steps of the DSR are identification of the problem and motivation, definition of the solution’s objectives, design and development, demonstration, evaluation of the solution and the communication of results. Findings Along with this work, it is possible to verify that the proposed method allows greater accuracy in the DD definition forecasts when compared to conventional calculations. Research limitations/implications Some limitations of this study can be pointed. It is possible to mention questions related to the tasks to be informed by users, as they could lead to problems in the performance of the artifact as the input data may not be correctly posted due to the misunderstanding of the question by part of the users. Originality/value The proposed artifact is a method capable of contributing to the development of the manufacturing industry to improve the forecast of manufacturing dates, assisting in making decisions related to production planning. The use of real production data contributed to creating, demonstrating and evaluating the artifact. This approach was important for developing the method allowing more reliability.