Glossar

Cycle time is the available time period during which a specific quantity of products, shipments, or work steps must be processed in order to meet a specified demand or process output. It is a key metric for planning and designing automated processes.

In logistics and production, cycle time is used to optimally coordinate workflows, conveyor systems, and automation systems. It influences throughput, equipment capacity, and process reliability. In DWS systems or automated conveyor systems, the measurement and processing speed must be designed so that every item can be reliably captured and processed within the available cycle time.

Practical example:

In a parcel sorting center, an automatic sorting system must measure, weigh, and identify each package within the specified cycle time so that the continuous sorting process runs without interruption.

See also: Automatic sorting system, Conveyor speed, In-motion measurement, Process automation, Process reliability, Scan speed, Time management