In the role of a major investigative method, the capabilities of computer simulation techniques in analysing the performance of cellular and flowline manufacturing systems are evaluated and its potentials and implications appraised.

In Chapter One a general introduction to the problems of manufacturing industries is given and the British Oxygen Company plant which was investigated in this work is introduced. Chapter Two describes the approach made towards system development methodology with particular reference to the total research project plan.

Chapter Three provides a literature, survey focussed on the available methods of research and their merits in solving relevant industrial problems. Chapter Four then presents a methodical approach to practical system simulation. An account of the development of the generalised simulation program and its most relevant features is fully documented in Chapter Five.

In Chapter Six, production system parameters are analysed and the guidelines for experimentation obtained. Based on the analyses in Chapter Six, Chapters Seven to Twelve then examine different operational possibilities for improving the system performance.

Finally, Chapter Thirteen summarises the conclusions derived from the work as a whole, followed by a general discussion and recommendations associated with the use of simulation with suggestions for further work.