Utilising Discrete Event Simulation to Support Conceptual Development of Production Systems

Abstract

Abstract The use of Discrete Event Simulation (DES) to support the analysis of production systems is well-established. However, the development of new production systems creates conditions which can cause difficulties in successfully applying this type of simulation. This thesis investigates if and how DES should be applied during the development of a new production system concept. A number of significant challenges with this application and context have been identified, which are caused by uncertainties in project prerequisites, frequent changes of the system and concept, and limited availability and quality of input data. Accordingly, this thesis proposes an adapted DES project methodology which sets out to overcome the identified challenges. The adaptations include parallel and iterative methodology steps, and a critical importance of closely involving the simulation team in the development of the new production system concept. The proposed DES project methodology was applied and evaluated during the development of a new production system concept in an industrial case study. The findings from the evaluation show that the proposed simulation project methodology can reduce the impact of the identified challenges with an application of DES in this context. However, these challenges still exist and have to be considered. Additionally, the proposed simulation project methodology enables valuable feedback-loops which contribute to the development of both the simulation model and new production system concept.