Output details

Energy optimisation in manufacturing systems using virtual engineering-driven discrete event simulation

This paper describes a new approach to energy optimisation in production line facilities, which involves feeding the output from 3D dynamic machine models directly into a discrete-event-based line simulation. This integrated approach enables earlier and more accurate modelling of aspects such as energy consumption, breakdowns and human performance before the physical line is commissioned. It enabled Ford (leslie.lee@hssmi.org) to optimise machines four months earlier in the build process and has been incorporated into Ford’s CCE toolkit for machine process planning to optimise assembly systems. The approach is being trialled with Schneider Electric (veronique.boutin@schneider-electric.com) in France for elevator system energy optimisation.