Tutorial $2$: U$-$LAYOUT VS LINE LAYOUT PRODUCTION

An automotive die making company produces dies for casting. The die is made in a single line

layout. The manufacturing process mainly involves forging and heat treatment which takes a time

of $45$ minutes and $120$ minutes respectively. There is a single operator involved in operating two

machines. However, the operator felt that if the machines are positioned closer he can easily

operate the two machines. He complained this discomfort to the owner of the factory.

understanding the difficulty faced by the operator the owner decided to reposition the layout and

thought of making the layout as a U$-$layout. Before doing such an experiment he wants to ensure

it$,$ so he approached a simulation consultant to exercise this option. His objective was to compare

the throughput of the two layouts and the distance travelled by the operator. The raw material

arrives every $10$ minutes for the processing.

$2\mathrm{.}1$ Compare output of both the layout $7320$ minutes

$2\mathrm{.}2$ Compare distance travelled by the operator in each case

$2\mathrm{.}3$ Suggest optimization of the superior layout

Material flow: