Simulation of a Closed-Loops Assembly Line

The aim of the work presented in this paper describes the development of a decision support system based on a discrete-event simulation model of an automobile assembly line. The model focuses at a very specific class of production lines with a four closed-loop network configuration. One key characteristic in the closed-loop system is that the number of pallets inside the first three loops has been made constant. The impact of the number of pallets circulating on the first three closed-loops and of the proportion of four-door car bodies on the performance of the production line has been thoroughly investigated. This has been translated into the number of cars produced per hour, in order to improve the availability of the entire manufacturing system.