Simulation-aided design of an automotive assembly cell

Abstract

Computer simulation is a popular and immensely powerful tool used in the design and the subsequent analysis of manufacturing systems. The popularity of simulation is due to its ability to model systems in a fast and cost effective way, its flexibility and its ability to model the time dynamic behaviour of systems. This paper demonstrates the use of computer simulation as a tool in the design and analysis of a new manufacturing system by presenting a case study of a proposed Instrument Panel/Crashpad production and assembly workcell in an automotive industry. The case study emphasis was to evaluate alternative designs, predict system performance, detect any potential problems, experiment with system parameters and determine the sensitivity of the system to these parameters. The simulation study was carried out using SIMFACTORY, a user friendly manufacturing system simulator.