An implementation of the business process modelling approach in the automotive industry

Abstract

The development and application of a business process modelling approach to comprehend, formalize, simulate and assess a particular domain within the automotive industry are described in this paper. Within an ongoing project carried out by Loughborough University, the design and implementation of a new generation of component-based machine control systems are being investigated. As part of this project, impacts of business and technical aspects of the new control systems on existing practices are also being examined using enterprise modelling methods and tools. The modelling has been applied to the production and assembly of a machine for a new engine project in the automotive industry.

The modelling approach has been based on the CIMOSA modelling architecture and complementary simulation and analysis tools, mainly ithink™ and Excel. The lessons learned from the implementation of the modelling approach and the assessment of the component-based machine control systems are also discussed in this paper. The criteria of this assessment were considered primarily as cost and time, although other factors that ultimately impact on the business processes are also discussed.

Keywords

business process model CIMOSA simulation business assessment automotive control system

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