Virtual Volvo upgrades its plant software
Volvo is using simulation software from Lanner to optimise efficiency and productivity at its plant in Gent, Belgium.
Lanner Witness software is being used to identify the best approach for new or revised car manufacture for a range of models, including the new XC60. The software helps Volvo to try out scenarios in a virtual environment before committing investment. It also enables the carmaker to remove blockages and bottlenecks in production.
With a turnover of €4 billion, Volvo’s plant in Gent produces more than 200,000 cars each year including the Volvo S40, V50, C30 and S60 as well as the XC60. It employs 4,500 people. The plant is one of two main Volvo assembly plants and exports 97% of its production globally.
For the last 10 years, Volvo has used Witness software at Gent, which enables the plant to respond quickly and accurately when requests are submitted. These often relate to capacity for a new model, changes in production and ascertaining the root cause of bottlenecks.
Through accessing a comprehensive picture of production across the entire plant, inefficiencies and areas of capacity can quickly be identified and addressed.
Volvo Gent has just adopted Witness 2008 and is benefiting from advanced functionality. Spreadsheet-style grid editing and dashboard-style views mean that the car firm can see all information and results. A comprehensive de-bugging functionality also helps to identify mistakes quickly.
Volvo is continuing to collaborate with the Lanner team on future versions of the software.
© PE Publishing, 26 November 2008
