Continuous improvement applied to simulation modeling: a case study

A typical transfer machine consists of several synchronous stations served by a common transfer mechanism. Many simulation languages and simulators available today may provide useful constructs that allow detailed modeling of such mechanisms. However, large models involving many entities can be slow to run. The paper presents several techniques that can be used to build accurate and efficient models of systems that include one or more transfer machines and long conveyors. The techniques described in the paper were developed during a simulation study of a large-scale manufacturing system. The overall approach to the modeling also demonstrates the application of the “continuous improvement” concepts in simulation model development