Patent ID: 7551974

Claim:
A processing method of n number of workpieces of a single kind in S seconds using at least one combined processing machine which selectively uses a forming tool, a heat treatment tool and a finishing tool to perform various processes to the workpieces in a predetermined sequence, wherein S/n is a tact time, the method comprising: a step of determining a required number of combined processing machines as the closest integer larger than the ratio of the sum of processing times of the processes for a single workpiece to the tact time; in a case that the required number of combined processing machines is determined to be greater than one, an arrangement step to arrange the plural combined processing machines in a processing line according to a volume of the workpieces, operating time of the combined processing machines and the tact time, wherein the plural combined processing machines are arranged serially; in the case that the required number of combined processing machines is determined to be greater than one, a step of sequentially transferring all of said workpieces to all of said plural combined processing machines from a first one of said plural combined processing machines to a last one of said plural combined processing machines, to process each one of the workpieces during said sum of processing times; in the case that the required number of combined processing machines is determined to be greater than one, a process share determination step to determine that at least a first one of said plural combined processing machines performs processing on each one of said workpieces for a time which is substantially equal to, but not greater than, the tact time; and in the case that the required number of combined processing machines is determined to be greater than one, a share process step to share the processes according to the determination of the process share determination step.