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Advances in Real-Time Data-Driven Scheduling and Optimisation in Dairy Manufacturing: Insights from Smart Yoghurt Production at Kefalos Cheese Pvt Ltd in Zimbabwe

Panashe S. Marivadzi*

Harare Institute of Technology, Harare, Zimbabwe.

Periodicity:July - September'2025

Abstract

This review paper synthesizes recent research and practical developments in real-time data-driven scheduling and optimisation within the dairy manufacturing sector, with a particular focus on smart yoghurt production processes. Emphasis is placed on critical operational parameters such as machine utilisation, changeover times, demand variability, and batch size management and their influence on key production performance indicators. The integration of Industry 4.0 technologies, including IoT sensor networks, OPC UA data acquisition protocols, and advanced simulation- optimisation frameworks built in MATLAB/Simulink, is examined as enabling pillars of adaptive scheduling. Practical case studies from dairy manufacturers worldwide share quantified improvements in production efficiency and schedule robustness. Attention is given to challenges and opportunities for implementing such data-driven scheduling techniques in emerging economies, highlighting the case of Kefalos Cheese Pvt Ltd in Zimbabwe. Gaps for future research and technology adoption are outlined to guide continued advancements in smart dairy manufacturing systems.

Keywords

Dairy Industry, Machine Utilisation, Demand Variability, Industry 4.0, Predictive Analytics, Smart Manufacturing.

How to Cite this Article?

Marivadzi, P. S. (2025). Advances in Real-Time Data-Driven Scheduling and Optimisation in Dairy Manufacturing: Insights from Smart Yoghurt Production at Kefalos Cheese Pvt Ltd in Zimbabwe. i-manager’s Journal on Mechanical Engineering, 15(3), 50-55.

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	North Americas,UK, Middle East,Europe		India	Rest of world
	USD	EUR	INR	USD-ROW
Pdf	35	35	200	20
Online	15	15	200	15
Pdf & Online	35	35	400	25

Advances in Real-Time Data-Driven Scheduling and Optimisation in Dairy Manufacturing: Insights from Smart Yoghurt Production at Kefalos Cheese Pvt Ltd in Zimbabwe

Abstract

Keywords

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References

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