Decision support for the selection of efficient assembly system shapes for small products

For the assembly of small products a variety of basic types respectively shapes for assembly systems are available. This multitude makes it difficult for companies to economically choose the most efficient one. Moreover the current selection methods are relying on in-depth and extensive detailed planning of all systems and need an exhaustive effort. Thus often these systems are chosen, that are already established in the company. Although the profitability of the selected system has been proved, it is still not known whether this is the most efficient one. A new method is presented, which offers a substantial reduction of time and effort for the selection of the most efficient assembly system shape best suitable for the respective assembly task.