A tutorial on WITNESS

WITNESS, a computerized simulation system designed for modeling manufacturing operations, has been designed to enable people with no previous simulation experience to learn and apply simulation modeling quickly. Models are constructed by defining the key elements that make up the manufacturing system, displaying them on the screen, and specifying the details of their timings, routings, capacities, labor requirements, etc. The latter information is entered on a detail form or template that prompts for relevant information and checks the validity of each answer. Complex routing and control logic is achieved with input and output rules and with actions commands on change of element status. Many interactions are available to help one validate and experiment with the model. Any desired changes can be incorporated instantly without code compilation or the need to reset the simulation to its initial state. The author explains the user interface, the steps used to build a WITNESS model, and the features most useful for testing and running the model.<
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