Simulation-Based Evaluation of Optimized Reconfigurable Cellular Manufacturing Deploying a Diversified Workforce

Abstract

This paper compares the performance of reconfigurable cellular manufacturing systems (RCMS) and linear systems when employing a diversified workforce with different work speeds. Due to demographic and labor market trends manufacturing companies increasingly struggle to find skilled personnel for efficient manufacturing operations usually organized in tact-driven production lines. Concepts for flexible manufacturing can foster the integration of a more diversified workforce. Yet, this potential is largely untapped in practice, as the benefits as well as the circumstances under which they can be realized are unknown. To address this gap, this paper proposes a simulation-based approach to compare the performance of reconfigurable cellular manufacturing systems (RCMS) and linear systems under different scenarios of workforce diversity. The approach is demonstrated within a dynamic multi-variant engine assembly use case, using discrete event simulation. The results confirm the feasibility of the method and point to the advantages of RCMS with different work speeds.