Data-driven generic simulators for flexible manufacturing systems

Despite the apparent move toward using data-driven simulators in manufacturing modelling, as opposed to simulation languages and packages that require programming, there have been few rational efforts to evaluate the development and use of these tools. As the number of tools continues to grow, such...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:International journal of production research 1991-09, Vol.29 (9), p.1795-1810
Main Authors: O'KEEFE, ROBERT M., HADDOCK, JORGE
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Applied sciences
Computer science
control theory
systems
Control theory. Systems
Exact sciences and technology
Process control. Computer integrated manufacturing
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Summary:Despite the apparent move toward using data-driven simulators in manufacturing modelling, as opposed to simulation languages and packages that require programming, there have been few rational efforts to evaluate the development and use of these tools. As the number of tools continues to grow, such evaluation is necessary if simulation users are going to make sensible informed choices. This paper presents two specialized data-driven simulators developed to model Flexible Manufacturing Systems called RENSAM (Rensselaer Simulator for Automated Manufacturing) and RENVIS (Rensselaer Visual Interactive Simulator). Experience with these packages leads to consideration of the benefits of using such tools. Advantages include the ease with which models can be developed and the rapid pace of that development, and the enforcement of proper statistics collection; disadvantages include misplaced perception of how easy the tool is to use, weaknesses in implementation and the limitations of the simulator. It is shown that where a tool is deployed in the modelling process is of paramount importance, and guidance on deployment is provided. Other guidelines for developers and users of data-driven simulators are also developed.
ISSN:0020-7543
1366-588X
DOI:10.1080/00207549108948050