Integrating logistics and production systems for optimized electric heater manufacturing in the automotive industry

Electric heating systems present a challenge compared to conventional systems in combustion engine cars due to inherent operational differences. Given the rising demand and rapid expansion of production, it is therefore crucial to harness potential by, for example, increasing efficiency. Quality fluctuations must be considered and reduced during the product manufacturing process. Thus, quality control within the production line is vital for early defect detection. These combined demands increase the complexity of system design and pose challenges for analytical methods. In this article, we present an integrated logistics design for production of heating systems for electric cars, implemented through process automation. The chosen approach supports the production process and reduces the error rate caused by heat input during the coating process under investigation. The processes were analyzed to identify inefficiencies and potential bottlenecks. The results of this analysis were included in the concept, whereby the material flow was examined by discrete-event simulations.