Productivity simulation in the automotive industry

The paper discusses the role of process and robotics simulation in the automotive industry. Real-world applications of simulation in the body shop, paint shop and general assembly areas of a vehicle assembly plant are given in addition to Business Process Reengineering (BPR) and supply chain logistics applications. Uses of simulation during the different phases of an engineering project are addressed. The phases of an engineering project are identified as the conceptual design, detailed design, launching and fully-operational phases. The specific application issues discussed include material handling, ergonomics, engineering design, scheduling, vehicle launching, supply chain logistics-engineering, and management.