Enhancing productivity using off-line performance modelling

Abstract

The available literature associated with virtual manufacturing is extensive. Far fewer publications have been sourced for virtual techniques associated with specific manufacturing functions, such as metal punching. A novel punching press work-cell has been developed that incorporates many innovative features, based around continuous production using coiled metal. The punching system within the overall work-cell has such a high productivity that problems associated with material handling, in particular, at the output side of the system became apparent. A collaborative project was initiated between an Australian university and the manufacturing and design organisation to investigate and amelio..