General remarks on the entropy-inspired MCAT (manufacturing complexity assessment tool) model to assess product assembly complexity

Abstract

Assembly complexity assessment is a widely addressed topic in manufacturing. Several studies proved the correlation between assembly complexity and the occurrence of defects, thus justifying this increasing attention. A measure of complexity provides control over quality costs and performances. Over the years, many methods have been proposed to provide an objective measure of complexity. One of the most widely diffused is the so-called MCAT (i.e., “Manufacturing Complexity Assessment Tool”) modified by Samy and ElMaraghy H. for assessing product assembly complexity. Although this method highlights some interesting aspects, it presents some critical issues. This work aims to thoroughly analyse this method, focusing on its strengths and limitations.