A simulation-based performance comparison between multi-model assembly lines and assembly cells in a just-in-time environment

In many manufacturing plants assembly lines(AL) are converted to assembly cells(AC) for satisfying the increasing market demand for shorter product delivery lead times, customization, and just-in-time(JIT) manufacturing in particular. Previous research is focused to compare two kinds of systems with some goals, such as average batch flow time and utilization rates. This research compares a multi-model assembly line (MMAL) and AC with the usage rate of all parts fed into the assembly system as constant as possible in a (JIT) environment, which is called the level-scheduling problem. Firstly, the level scheduling models in each manufacturing system are proposed for computing the performance values. Then, simulation experiments are conducted to compare the performance of MMAL and AC configurations. Operating environments vary by the ratio of product types (models) to product batches. The results indicate that AC is better than MMAL with the larger ratio. The conclusions highlight guidelines for practicing managers on the most appropriate system under a given set of operating conditions.