Advantages of process modeling as a key manufacturing tool to improve process efficiency and reduce costs

The authors describe the utilization of simulation techniques to achieve significant manufacturing improvements for a typical DoD circuit card manufacturing facility. Although the information presented describes the process flow of printed wire boards through the manufacturing cycle it can be used for improving any process-oriented system. Also included is information on selecting the proper hardware and software for various environments, data requirements, locating and processing this data, setting up and manipulating the various simulation parameters, type of output, proper output analysis, applications to other situations, validation techniques, and actual results showing a 90% reduction of work in process and a 83% reduction in cycle time. The authors describe in detail the approach to use for implementation in any aerospace environment or similar business dealing with small demand requirements of a high product mix