Comb structure
The term comb structure or finger structure was mainly coined in architecture and production planning .
It describes the appearance and / or the arrangement of sections / processes.
description
The comb structure is arranged like a well-known comb. It has a strong main strand, from which narrower secondary strands usually branch off at right angles (later referred to as branches). These can be on either side of the main strand.
The finger structure is in principle very similar to the comb structure, but allows a star-shaped distribution of the secondary strands, starting from the main strand.
Use
The arrangement described above results in a great advantage over other conventional arrangements. In this way, extensions can be implemented in production without essentially having to intervene in the existing structure. A branch / finger can be extended at any time without stopping the production process in the old, shorter finger. When the expansion is completed, it will be connected to the existing production process. This is normally possible in a very short time → only a short interruption in production is necessary.
The comb or finger structure also enables logistics processes to be designed flexibly. In the example of the BMW plant in Leipzig you can see that it is possible to transfer material in or out of each branch / finger. This leads to optimized storage . These logistics routes also remain in place in the event of an expansion.
Examples
