Value chain simulation in aircraft production

Simulation has proven to be a successful method for analyzing and improving value chains and cost price analysis in complex environments, such as aircraft production. This case-study concerns the value chain simulator (VCS), developed by INCONTROL for Fokker Aerostructures. This VCS enables the users to deal with all relevant parameters for manufacturing, logistics and financing in early project phases. The Fokker VCS is integrated in the current ERP system, so all relevant design parameters including Bill of Material, Bill of Processes and Bill of Resources are imported in the VCS and the simulation model is built up automatically. Since all financial parameters are included in the model, eventually the cost-price development of the manufactured parts over the full delivery period is calculated using simulation. The simulation application has already achieved benefits, but the final goal of this ongoing development is to accomplish an application which supports aircraft manufacturers in determining the Total Cost of Ownership for their products.