A computer simulation system for the evaluation of man assignments on car assembly tracks

Line balancing and manpower assignment is a particularly complicated task in a mixed model assembly line and especially in the final assembly tracks of the automobile industry because of factors peculiar to such tracks. The major problem is the very large difference in work content between the different derivatives flowing through the track. This paper describes a computer simulation system developed to evaluate a man assignment against the criteria of maximising operator utilisation, catering from flexibility in derivative mix/sequence and keeping operator drift to permitted levels. A discussion on development of computerised line balancing techniques for the industry is also included.