SIMUL8 simulation software is used by automotive manufacturers to examine and optimize operational factors, including mixed model assembly, staffing requirements and resource utilization.
Optimize for mixed-model assembly. Conduct ‘what-if’ analysis. Maximize resource utilization.
Simulation can also be utilized to address the various operational aspects of the plant such as shift patterns, build schedules, and number of operators on the line.
With the growing need for assembly plants to be capable of producing a family of vehicles, knowing how to run a plant in the most flexible but efficient manner is critical to ROI.
Mixed model assembly lines are increasingly used by manufacturers to meet the diversified needs of their customers, increase flexibility and reduce costs associated with large product inventories.
"By 2017, Ford will increase its global flexible manufacturing to produce on average four different models at each plant around the world to allow for greater adaptability based on varying customer demand."
Source: 100 Years of the Moving Assembly Line, Ford
Although it has advantages, mixed model assembly can increase plant complexity and impose additional unique constraints on the system.
This is why automotive manufacturers rely on simulation tools like SIMUL8, to help test mixed model assembly lines and get the answers needed to reduce inventory levels, shorten lead times and improve resource utilization and productivity.
Simulation reduces the risk when implementing manufacturing facilities that strive for multiple product variance, particularly when it comes to cost, quality and time. Manufacturers can assess a broad range of factors which have implications for efficient mixed model assembly including:
Automotive simulation expert Brian Harrington explains how simulation tools like SIMUL8 can support flexible automotive manufacturing and mixed model assembly.
Often a vehicle product mix may contain a vehicle type that has a longer cycle time then the others. This vehicle type may cause significant throughput loss as it can pace the rest of the line to its respective cycle time.
Simulation can highlight the benefits of running these low volume vehicles within respective batch builds. Conducting various ‘what-if’ studies can determine the optimal batch size, while striving to adhere to the customer order schedule.
Simulation can be used to test and optimize operating patterns, including varying planned downtime such as operator breaks. Furthermore, it could include running certain section of the plant through breaks, or utilizing tag relief strategies.
Given the operating pattern, the plant can then determine the number of units produced per shift, per day, per month, and per year.
"We reduced two people per shift on one line. With three shifts per day we effectively reduced manpower costs by six on that line, saving $600,000 each year.
Steve Lin, Throughput and Simulation Specialist, Fiat Chrysler
As well as machinery and equipment, staff such as line-side operators, shared task operators, forklift drivers and maintenance workers are key resources in driving the overall production process.
Simulation is effective for determining the best strategy for assessing resource requirements and placement, as well as optimizing the balance of resource tasks.
With advanced robotics playing an increasing role in supporting human operators, interaction between them is becoming more seamless, enabling production line operators to collaborate with, train and manage robots on the production line.
Simulation is valuable for providing great insight into these complex shared tasks, including travel and walk times, as well as distinguishing between 'automated' and 'manual' tasks within a cycle time.
For example, simulation can highlight whether a station is waiting for a part, or waiting for an operator. This allows manufacturing engineers to design robust work stations that won’t pace the line, or become a bottleneck due to overloaded operator utilization.
With SIMUL8, skilled trades such as millwrights, electricians, pipefitters, and tool-makers can also be added to models to determine the optimal onsite maintenance crew. These skilled trades can be added to activities where breakdowns occur, thereby gaining critical insight into the plants repair and maintenance strategy.
Simulation enables design teams to test concepts to maximize throughput, discover bottlenecks and minimize the effects of downtime.
Simulation is utilized to optimize key performance metrics including Jobs Per Hour, Overall Equipment Effectiveness and Return on Investment.
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