12/04/2024 Progress (Testing and Plant Simulation)

As we approach the project's end, I wanted to explore more scenarios with robots and workers to find the most effective approach. These tests build upon earlier ones, which examined the use of robots, workers, reusing, and recycling methods.

In Testing Phase 6, I introduced three workers into the plant simulation model to assess their impact on production efficiency. Unlike the previous phase, which utilized conveyors for transportation, this phase relied on manual labor. However, this manual approach led to slower transportation and increased waiting times at stations, resulting in a higher number of produced parts to compensate for inefficiencies. Despite producing a similar throughput, this phase utilized more resources compared to the previous one, indicating lower efficiency.

Testing Phase 6

In Testing Phase 7, I replaced conveyors with two additional robotic arms to transport excess parts, aiming to maintain compactness and improve efficiency. This change resulted in a more compact plant simulation model while accommodating the reach of the robotic arms. The outcome showed improvements in efficiency compared to the previous phase, with a 20% decrease in unnecessary parts produced. Additionally, employing three IRB 1100 robots proved to be a more cost-effective option compared to employing nine workers, considering both initial investment and operational costs. This demonstrates the effectiveness of integrating robotics to enhance production efficiency and reduce costs in the plant simulation model.

Testing Phase 7