Feasibility study of using Time Blocks at Volvo Cars for time data management

Abstract

In manufacturing, Time Data Management (TDM) refers to the process of estab- lishing, maintaining, and utilizing time bases for various operations. These time bases can be used for tasks such as estimating costs, planning processes, and im- proving operations. However, with the introduction of new electric models at Volvo Cars, changes to existing assembly operations will require significant effort, time, and resources to establish and maintain new time bases. To address this issue, this thesis explores the feasibility of using time blocks with variables, as proposed by the research project TIMEBLY, to streamline TDM. The study focuses on the tun- nel assembly line at Volvo Cars, analyzing all manual operations and identifying constants and variables to build time blocks. These time blocks are organized in a framework library, allowing for the determination of time bases by entering variable values. The accuracy of these time bases was compared to those determined by predetermined time systems, and the feasibility of using time blocks for TDM was validated based on its coverage, accuracy, and effectiveness. Ultimately, using time blocks with variables proved to be a highly feasible and effective approach to reduce the time, resources, and effort required for TDM. v