Supply chain simulation Process chain evaluation Internal logistics simulation Supply chain
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Several feature of the internal logistics models can be considered exceptional...
Scope. The scale of the each of the internal logistics models is unusual. Each was based upon a great deal of company data, this being gathered over a lengthy period. This has resulted in highly accurate models being created, allowing a wide range of different experiments to be carried out. Backed by a thorough validation, these provide insights into company-level logistics.
Tools Back Next Home Logout Areas of application Aims Introduction to logistic control Performance metrics Sample results Further reading Case studies Model construction Introduction to internal logistics Conclusions and recommendations Validation
Interfacing. In each model, Microsoft Excel was used to provide a user interface for both input and output. It acts as a common denominator; it’s a simple program that is widely available and well-known by lots of users. As such, it allows the simulations to be used by novices, who can describe scenarios in terms of delivery schedules, component shortages, breakdowns and so on. After a simulation run, the results are exported to that same, familiar application, where the user can examine predefined, graphical readouts, or subject the data to their own analyses.
Control. A novel method was developed, whereby a single simulation could be made to exhibit a variety of different logistic control behaviours. The system reflects the reality in many factories, in that it allows hybrid systems of logistic control, where different manufacturing processes have different rules to control the flow of material. The approach is based upon a parametric logistic control system, whereby a target level of work-in-progress can be specified for a sequence of operations. These target values cause areas to ‘push’ and/or ‘pull’ material from one sequence to the next. Changing the target values changes the method of logistic control.
The net result of this parametric system of logistic control is that alternatives can be explored without reprogramming the simulation model. Furthermore, it is not necessary to re-validate the model after each such change, saving a considerable amount of time and increasing the level of confidence in the model.
Breakdown of operations into sequences to be subjected to parametric logistic control, in a turbine exhaust casing model.