Improving the simulation model building process through guidance and feedback

This paper will briefly review the types of simulation tools that are currently available for modelling manufacturing systems. Particular emphasis will be made on the time and skill required to build an initial model as well as subsequent, refined models. The concept of guiding the user through the process of model building and providing feedback is introduced. A modified object-oriented simulator will be described. Using the process of building 'U'-shaped manufacturing cells for illustration, it will be shown that the new methods could provide a considerable reduction in time and skill required. It is shown that the modifications shift the use of the simulator from evaluation to design.