Towards a mixed method model and simulation of the automotive supply chain network connectivity

This article presents a multi method simulation based tool, that reflects in details the network structure of automotive supply chain and will be used to support decision making. It allows to examine the complex system behavior considering mutual interactions among nodes and evaluate the upstream and downstream connectivity mechanisms in product and supply chain design. The conceptual models used have been formulated based on review of the state of art research which helped select the adequate modeling for simulation paradigms, Mainly ABM (Agent based modeling), DE (discrete event) and SD (System dynamics) modeling and integrating PLM (Product Life Cycle Management) approach. The first part of the paper identifies the needs to the connectivity mechanisms in auto SCM and modeling of this complex system. In sequence, the simulation modeling as a business decision tool is discussed and the method conception is presented. Finally, the proposal delimitation and future uses in the automobile industry are given.