Online simulation modeling of prefabricated wall panel production using RFID system

The use of discrete-event simulation (DES) in the construction and manufacturing industry has been increasing significantly over the past few decades. However, DES at present is mainly utilized during the construction planning phase as a planning tool, and it still remains a challenge to apply simulation during the execution phase for the purpose of construction control without an automated real-time data acquisition system. This study exploits an approach that involves the integration of a radio frequency identification (RFID) system and DES model in order to capture the real-time production state into the simulation model, thereby enabling real-time, simulation-based performance monitoring. The proposed methodology is implemented at Landmark Building Solutions, a wood-frame panel prefabrication plant in Edmonton, Canada. A simulation model is developed in Simphony.NET and integrated with the RFID system in order to enable the online simulation and to obtain real-time simulation results for the purpose of production control.