Simulation Studies

Overview

Simulation studies are used for a variety of purposes in an order fulfillment environment. A simulation is a time and space model of an operational system with fixed and variable parameters allowing the user to perform all kinds of "what if" analyses to in order to determine optimum parameters, identify potential bottlenecks, and avoid problems prior to actually building the system in the material world. Output includes a video AVI file of the actual operation, allowing your team to view workers in real-time, slow motion or high speed, the way a football coach might dissect a game on film. You can see idle operators, collisions, and people and machines who are waiting on information or work.

But it is much more than a pretty picture. When to press "Run" the model collects data on a host of various discrete operator and system performance variables, allowing you to look at your operation at both a micro and macro level. Results are checked against sensitivity by variable.

Process

When engaging in a simulation study first we identify a proposed operational concept or the scope of an existing problem. Fixed and variable inputs are selected along with a real-world range of inputs, for example walking speed or time per pick. Industry standards are used for a starting point. Because the real world is not homogeneous, performance, especially of people, can be modeled along a bell curve. Once the model has been built, order data is used. This data can be an extrapolation (say to allow for growth) of existing customer order data, or in some cases, this order data must be built from assumptions.

When modeling a new process, it is a nice confidence check to model the existing operation as it is today to see if the results match the current performance. Then the model is checked and validated.  From here we run and interpret the model and create a written report of our results and recommendations. Does the sorter need 60 lanes or will 48 be sufficient? How does your answer vary based on how fast a packer can complete their order? Knowing the answers to these questions gives you the confidence that the proposed system design will work.

Why PWD?

Simulation does not need to be that expensive. Most of our studies fall in the range of $5,000 to $25,000. Furthermore, once the model is complete and meets your approval, we give you unlimited ability to share and reuse the model throughout your organization. Installation on your PC is straightforward. At StreamTech we enjoy helping customers define and execute successful projects using simulation modeling. Give us a call and let us take a look at your project.