A framework for modelling variation in vehicle assembly processes

A method is described which facilitates the computer simulation of variation in vehicle assembly processes. The method uses data exchange locations, or DXL, to store data needed in the simulation, and coded keywords to manipulate those data. The DXL structure and the keywords may be tailored to the area of interest. Hence, the method is applicable to a wide range of problems. This paper gives some examples from the structural area to show how dimensional variation may be simulated.