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Access Type
Campus Access
Document Type
thesis
Degree Program
Industrial Engineering & Operations Research
Degree Type
Master of Science in Industrial Engineering and Operations Research (M.S.I.E.O.R.)
Year Degree Awarded
2014
Month Degree Awarded
February
Keywords
Discrete event simulation, complex assembly systems, delivery delay, simulation tool
Abstract
Complex assembly systems are made up of hundreds, and in some cases, thousands of parts, that all need to be managed in a proper manner so part arrivals will coincide to meet a build plan, and ensure production requirements are satisfied. A major challenge faced by manufacturers for these complex systems is that many parts have long and complex supply chains, which result in long and highly variable supply lead times. The high cost and low volume makes holding large stocks of these components unviable. Thus, the need arises for the development of a simulation tool that can predict the time all of the required parts are ready for assembly, and allow for comparison of various ordering and inventory strategies. Two strategies were tested, the current practice of ordering to an agreed upon quoted lead time, and a strategy which accounts for lead time variability through advanced ordering. The results of these two strategies displayed the benefits of synchronizing the system through advance ordering, as a potential 60% reduction in inventory was observed. Future development in the tool would incorporate more granular steps of the build sequence, as well as the inclusion of quality non-conformance (QN) issues.
DOI
https://doi.org/10.7275/4829660
First Advisor
Ana Muriel