Modelling Modular Design Processes for Automated Production Facilities

Abstract

This paper discusses a concurrent engineering approach for the design of flexible manufacturing facilities where logistics considerations are included in early planning stages. The multidisciplinary approach is based on four modules, automation and robotics, command and control, production planning and layout, and logistics and maintenance planning. The research teams used a variety of operations research techniques to define their preferences for equipment choice and process design. A small case study is used to select design features for a facility for teaching and research, and subsequent transfer to industry. The paper also proposes a multi-criteria approach which allows the four modules to have different and sometimes conflicting objectives. This is exemplified by an application of the analytic hierarchy process method.