Decision Support for Choosing an Appropriate Simulation Method for Dynamic Material Flow Analysis

Abstract

When improving industrial process chains in terms of productivity it is becoming more and more important to not only consider the static, but also the dynamic behavior of value streams. The effects of intended changes on production systems often are unknown and could underlie vast variations due to the planned outcome. In order to validate such changes before implementation, the use of material flow simulation is widely discussed in research and industrial practice. Such optimization projects usually require the collaboration of production system and simulation experts. Through the increased dissemination of various simulation tools on the market as well as multiple simulation methods available (discrete event, agent based and system dynamics) the actual selection of a suitable simulation setting is a challenging task. To support such optimization teams in the selection of an appropriate simulation method a decision making approach based on comparative criteria is shown and discussed in this article, concluding with a case study. 

Production Process Evaluation of a Job Shop Fabrication Line – A Case Study at a Door Manufacturer

“…One of the most common types of static simulations is by using random numbers to solve problems, usually stochastic, but time rolling has no role. Dynamic Simulation is a study to know information-feedback characteristics to tell how organization structure, amplification, and time delay in decision and action model communicate to give impact to the success of the company [8]. The deterministic simulation model assumes no variability in the model parameters and, therefore, does not involve random variables.…”

“…Discrete simulation model is where variable conditions change only at some point in time. In addition, discrete simulation is recommended in queuing problems and complicated queuing systems scenarios [8].…”

Framework for Operational Performance Measurements in Small and Medium Scale Industries Using Discrete Event Simulation Approach

“…Performance measurement, a sub-division of performance evaluation involves the selection of appropriate quantitative measures to aid decision making in a system. These measures are vital input into any decision support tools (DST) [1,2]. Also, such measures are required to assist executives at different decision levels.…”