Assembly line optimisation is an important process. When the system is complex, mathematical modelling and design of experiments becomes difficult. Hence process simulation approach is adopted here. Contribution of this research is improvement of performance of assembly line by maximising the measurement of performances like cycle time, throughput, resource utilisation and also by reducing cost. Key features of this research are development of eight different models for different input variables without disturbing existing set up. This what-if analysis is done using Arena process simulation software. Effect of layout, resource distribution, combination of operations, time study, Maynard operation sequencing techniques (MOST) has been studied here. Combinational effect of all these parameters are difficult to analyse analytically, hence unique simulation approach is selected. MOST is useful to find value added and non-value added activities. Lean techniques like kaizen, total productive maintenance, line balancing, low cost automation are used for different scenarios.
Automobile sector forms the backbone of manufacturing sector. Vehicle assembly line is important section in automobile plant where repetitive tasks are performed one after another at different workstations. In this thesis, a methodology is proposed to reduce cycle time and time loss due to important factors like equipment failure, shortage of inventory, absenteeism, set-up, material handling, rejection and fatigue to improve output within given cost constraints. Various relationships between these factors, corresponding cost and output are established by scientific approach. This methodology is validated in three different vehicle assembly plants. Proposed methodology may help practitioners to optimize the assembly line using lean techniques.
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