Variable Assembly

When you need to quickly produce intermittent assembly models, vary what is attached during assembly based on the production order. To assemble several types of products on the same line, each requiring different sub components, or vary the assembly time based on that which is being assembled, or to transfer cost and VA time from a sub assembly to the main component.

Variable Assembly model image

Where to Find the Model Object

The following model object will be used to produce intermittent assembly model:

  • Assembly \ Variable Assembly.

Variable Assembly model object pasted

Definition

Base Entity: The entity to which other items will be assembled. For example in truck assembly line, the base entity would be the frame.

Subassembly: The entity assembled to the Base entity (engine, transmission, front and rear differential, etc.)

How It Functions

When the base entity reaches an assembly station, an attribute defines the quantity to be attached. This attribute is also found in the attach quantity of the attach route from the subassembly

how it functions Variable Assembly

If the attribute (a_MO_Qty1 ) of the base entity is set to 4, then 4 subassemblies will be attached and time to assemble (also defined by an attribute) 4 will be added. If the attribute of the base entity is set to 0, then no request will be made to assemble, and zero time will be added for assembly.

In addition, 2 variables (see the description of variables below) transfer the VATime and Cost from the subassembly to the main part.

How to Use the Model Object

  1. Open Your Model: Open your model or create a new blank model.
  2. Insert the Model Object into Your Model: Locate the appropriate location in your model where you would like to place the model object, move the view to the location and then insert the model object.
  3. Connect to Your Model:
    1. Insert the model object for each subassembly.Variable Assembly model object pasted
    2. Build the assembly process tying into the newly placed assembly stations.building the assemble process in Variable Assembly
    3. Build each subassembly process and connect to the inventory queue.build subassembly process in Variable Assembly
    4. If multiple subassemblies need to be connected, do the following:
      1. Place a new assembly station for each sub assembly.place new assembly in variable assembly
      2. Move route head from the extra assembly stations to the assembly station you will be using.move route from subassembly to assembly in Variable Assembly
      3. Copy the action logic from the unused assembly stations