A simulation study integrated with analytic hierarchy process (AHP) in an automotive manufacturing system

Abstract

A variety of circumstances, such as developing a new product, changing the design of an existing product, changing the production volume, or changing the product mix, can drive the need for a manufacturing system redesign. Simulation technology has been widely used for evaluating manufacturing system design alternatives. Various performance measures including throughput, utilization of resources, lead-time, and work in process are obtained from simulation studies. However, the dimensions of performance measures are different, and it requires that the trade-offs between them should be considered. In addition, personal preferences in the selection of performance measures vary from person to person. Thus, the multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) system is required to complement the simulation technology. This paper presents a case study that integrates a simulation study with analytic hierarchy process (AHP), applied to the design of a transmission case line in a Korean automotive factory. The simulation model is developed with QUEST®. Four performance measures (criteria) and seven design alternatives are considered utilizing AHP.