Patent ID: 7970638
Filing Date: 2011-06-28
Classification: G06Q

Abstract:
1. A method in a data processing system for planning parts coverage, wherein current parts of a specified type, and substitute parts that are functionally equivalent to the current parts, are respectively kept in inventory, said method comprising the steps of: wherein each one of said current parts was produced by modifying one of said substitute parts; forecasting a demand for said current parts; during said forecasting, predetermining a maximum percentage of said demand for said current parts to be filled using said substitute parts, wherein said percentage is less than one hundred percent, wherein each substitution for one of said current parts requires no more than one of said substitute parts and requires an entire one of said substitute parts, and wherein substitutions are always made in order to fulfill said demand; determining, using a processor that is included in the data processing system, the quantity of additional parts that are needed to cover a given anticipated demand, when said given demand specifies a total quantity of current parts that exceeds the quantity of current parts then in inventory; assigning a quantity of said substitute parts from inventory to cover said given demand, up to a quantity that does not exceed said predetermined maximum percentage of said specified total quantity of current parts; and determining, using said processor, a quantity of said current parts to be acquired that is equal to the difference between said quantity of additional needed parts and said assigned quantity of substitute parts, when said quantity of additional needed parts is greater than said assigned quantity of parts.