Use of the Digital Factory for simulation and analysis of working methods in automotive manufacturing cell

Abstract

The Digital Factory (DF) can be defined as a set of software oriented to the development of production processes, from the design and planning to the implementation of such processes. This work presents an update of a theoretical background and applications of DF concepts for modeling in a virtual environment of an automaker's manufacturing cell. In this cell, the operator assembles a turn signal switch of different car models, which requires him to move and bring the assembly components to a workbench. Tecnomatix Jack ergonomics software was used to simulate three methods of displacement of an avatar with Brazilian height and weight parameters, with a cycle time of one min as a boundary condition. The results in terms of cycle time (s) and metabolism (kcal) are presented and analyzed.

Key Technologies Driving the Car of the Future

“…(iv) Digital Factories -The digital factory will be an integral part of the automotive future. A digital factory can produce cars in the most efficient, effective, and error-free manner across the globe (Silva et al, 2018). It uses technologies such as systems modelling, automation and digitization for flexible and cost-effective mass production.…”