Life Cycle and Unit Cost Analysis for Modular Re-Configurable Flexible Light Assembly Systems

Abstract

This chapter illustrates a methodology for the design of a modular semi-automated reconfigurable assembly system using component-based simulation and life cycle cost analysis. To ensure that an assembly system is appropriately designed, system measurement schemes should be established for determining and understanding design effectiveness. Measurements can be classed into two categories: cost and performance. Understanding manufacturing costs is the first step towards increasing profits. The chapter outlines the development of an analysis tool that integrates overall equipment efficiency (OEE), cost of ownership (COO), and other analysis methods to improve the design of flexible, modular reconfigurable assembly systems. The development is based on selected industrial standards and the experience in modular assembly system design and simulation. The developed total cost of ownership (TCO) methodology is useful in system supplier and end-user communication, helps in trade-off analysis of the system concepts, and improves the system specification.