MANAGING BOTTLENECKS IN MANUAL AUTOMOBILE ASSEMBLY SYSTEMS USING DISCRETE EVENT SIMULATION

Authors

  • M Dewa Durban University of Technology
  • L Chidzuu Chinhoyi University of Technology

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.7166/24-2-567

Keywords:

Bottleneck Management, Manual assembly systems, Dicrete event simulation

Abstract

Batch model lines are quite handy when the demand for each product is moderate. However, they are characterised by high work-in-progress inventories, lost production time when changing over models, and reduced flexibility when it comes to altering production rates as product demand changes. On the other hand, mixed model lines can offer reduced work-in-progress inventory and increased flexibility. The object of this paper is to illustrate that a manual automobile assembling system can be optimised through managing bottlenecks by ensuring high workstation utilisation, reducing queue lengths before stations and reducing station downtime. A case study from the automobile industry is used for data collection. A model is developed through the use of simulation software. The model is then verified and validated before a detailed bottleneck analysis is conducted. An operational strategy is then proposed for optimal bottleneck management. Although the paper focuses on improving automobile assembly systems in batch mode, the methodology can also be applied in single model manual and automated production lines.

Author Biographies

M Dewa, Durban University of Technology

Department of Industrial Engineering Lecturer

L Chidzuu, Chinhoyi University of Technology

Department of Production Engineering Lecturer

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Published

2013-09-06

How to Cite

Dewa, M., & Chidzuu, L. (2013). MANAGING BOTTLENECKS IN MANUAL AUTOMOBILE ASSEMBLY SYSTEMS USING DISCRETE EVENT SIMULATION. The South African Journal of Industrial Engineering, 24(2), 155–166. https://doi.org/10.7166/24-2-567

Issue

Vol. 24 No. 2 (2013)

Section

Case Studies

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