Simulation and decision support models for rough mills: a multi-agent perspective

A rough mill is a manufacturing facility where loads of lumber (jags) are processed into specific size components. In this paper, we describe a multi-agent system that simulates the operations of the ripsaw, conveyor and chopsaw, and provides the user with recommended decisions for selecting jags and cut-lists (specific-size components for cutting). Using the graphical user interface, the user can run several scenarios, and test the recommended decisions through simulation. The operator can then make an informed decision on the rough mill floor. A discrete event based simulation model provides functionality for the agent-based model. The Java Agent Development Framework (JADE) was used to develop the agent system. The new system was validated by comparing results obtained using a centralized simulator.