The Use of Simulation in Facility Layout Planning

Abstract

The aim of this thesis is to create a better understanding of how computer simulation is used in industry especially in the area of facility layout planning. The project in which this thesis is based upon concerns the development of a factory layout which will be created in a production line simulation. The research will give a background on the techniques and current practices used by engineers in layout planning today. Background research was conducted in the field of simulations including the history, advantages, current capabilities, steps of development, and current uses. Research also concerning layout planning will also be reported in the research sections of this thesis. A case study concerning the layout planning and simulation of a production line for a motorbike will be followed to prove the benefits of simulation in facility layout planning. The thesis will follow the steps taken by the Engineering team to construct the layout used in the simulation as well as touch upon the actual construction of the simulation. The results will be used to further develop the facility layout as well as help other colleagues visualize and understand the production system.