Högskolan i Skövde

Uncertainty in production system design poses challenges in ensuring adaptability and efficiency. This study explores the use of Discrete Event Simulation (DES) to conceptualize modular and reconfigurable automated assembly systems under uncertain conditions. A case study was conducted where a company faced unknown product designs and fluctuating volume demands, necessitating a novel simulation-driven approach. The iterative DES modeling process provided insights into process variation, task prioritization, and system balancing. Results show that simplified simulation models can support early design decisions and enhance platform-based co-development, evolving simulation from a validation tool into a strategic asset for production system design.