Communities in PRCR
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- Colecciones de la Albizu University
- Colecciones digitales de Atenas College
- Colecciones de los Centros Sor Isolina Ferré
- Materiales utilizados para la certificación.
Recent Submissions
Idle Waiting Time for Patients – Why Does It Happen?
(Polytechnic University of Puerto Rico, 2026) Díaz Quiles, Laura; Nieves Castro, Rafael A.
This study examines the increasing wait times for physician appointments and office visits at a medical practice specializing in endocrinology. The practice operates Monday through Thursday, with hours on Mondays and Wednesdays from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM, and on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM. The current appointment system is outdated and overwhelmed by the growing number of patients. This study suggests that not only does the scheduling system contribute to long wait times, but that factors such as patients with multiple comorbidities, older patients, and those with psychological or mental disorders also play a significant role. Patients experienced wait times for consultations ranging from 33 to 121 minutes, with an average consultation time of 21.17 minutes. Implementing a new appointment scheduling method could reduce physician burnout, minimize errors, and allow for more dedicated time for patient care.
Design of a Lean Capacity Optimization Strategy for Machines Under No Mixing Policies
(Polytechnic University of Puerto Rico, 2026) Pérez Hidalgo, Licelys M.; Pabón González, Miriam
Manufacturing systems operating under fixed batch sizes and strict no-mixing requirements often experience capacity losses due to misalignment between production order quantities and machine cycle capacity. This research examines a three-machine manufacturing system where recurring idle machine cycles lead to underutilized assets, increased lead times, and elevated work-in-process levels. Using the Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control (DMAIC) methodology, the study identifies traceability limitations within machine cycles as the primary root cause of capacity loss. A traceability-based feeding system is developed that enables multiple production orders to be processed within the same cycle while maintaining compliance with quality, process, and documentation requirements. The solution incorporates uniquely identified trays, enhanced documentation, and 5S-based preparation to eliminate idle machine cycles without changing batch sizes or adding equipment. The results demonstrate that hidden capacity can be unlocked through process redesign and improved traceability in constrained manufacturing environments.
Evaluation of a Weight Measurement System in a Manufacturing Process Using Gage R&R Analysis
(Polytechnic University of Puerto Rico, 2026) Rodríguez Reynoso, Oasis; Morales Morales, José Alberto
Measurement systems play a role in manufacturing environments because process decisions depend on accurate and reliable data. This study evaluates the performance of a digital weighing system through a Measurement System Analysis using a Gage Repeatability and Reproducibility approach. The objective was to determine whether the system can produce consistent and reproducible measurements suitable for quality related decision making. The study involved ten parts, three operators, and three repeated measurements per part, a total of ninety observations. Statistical analysis was performed using the Analysis of Variance method to quantify repeatability, reproducibility, and total measurement variation. Results showed a total Gage R&R value of 3.97 percent, indicating that the system meets industry acceptance criteria. Variation was attributed to part-to-part differences, while the Number of Distinct Categories confirmed discrimination capability. These findings demonstrate that the measurement system is stable, reliable, and appropriate for manufacturing process control and quality assurance applications.
Forecasting-Based Production Planning System to Improve PPLH Performance in Extrusion Manufacturing Using Power BI
(Polytechnic University of Puerto Rico, 2026) Montoya Villalta, Pedro; Morales Morales, José Alberto
This study focuses on improving labor productivity control in an extrusion manufacturing environment by addressing inefficiencies in aligning production volume with operational hours. The objective of this research is to develop a forecasting-based production planning system that improves Pounds Per Labor Hour (PPLH) performance. The methodology includes analysis of historical production data and development of a data-driven model using Power BI. Results indicate that aligning labor scheduling with production demand improves utilization and stabilizes productivity. The findings demonstrate that data-driven planning enhances operational efficiency.
Process Improvement for Enterprise OT Asset Intelligence & Lifecycle Management
(Polytechnic University of Puerto Rico, 2026) Guzmán Huertas, Stephanie; González Miranda, Carlos J.
This design project aims to improve the Operational Technology (OT) asset management process by implementing a centralized infrastructure for managing and monitoring industrial automation assets across manufacturing facilities. The initiative focuses on optimizing OT asset inventory and lifecycle management processes to reduce inefficiencies, improve data accuracy, strengthen cybersecurity risk management, and drive standardization across the enterprise. The improvement initiative was conducted following the DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control) methodology, ensuring a systematic and data-driven approach. Currently, OT asset inventory is maintained through offline lists that require manual updates whenever systems are upgraded or newly introduced to the manufacturing sites. This approach often leads to data inaccuracies, limited visibility, and delayed updates. By implementing a centralized system with automated network discovery, asset information will be continuously updated and validated in real time. This ensures greater data accuracy, improved lifecycle management, and enables faster, more effective responses to identified vulnerabilities, helping improve system reliability and overall cybersecurity.