Manufacturing Simulation

Manufacturing simulation is the use of computer modeling to virtually test manufacturing methods and procedures – including processes such as production, assembly, inventory, and transportation. This greatly reduces the time and costs that physical testing of a manufacturing system would incur.

Simulation software can be used to predict the performance of a planned manufacturing system and to compare solutions for any problems discovered in the system's design. This makes manufacturing simulation a significantly competitive capability - allowing manufacturers to test a range of scenarios before buying tooling, reserving capacity, or coordinating other expensive production resources. By using simulation software to determine exactly what is needed, the manufacturer can avoid problems during production while also reducing scrap and rework.

Manufacturing Simulation Applications

In addition to validating all-new means of production early in the product lifecycle, manufacturing simulation can also be applied to existing facilities or processes to identify inefficiencies or to analyze the impact of introducing new equipment, materials, or other changes. Some common aspects of manufacturing that simulations can help with include:
  • Design and balancing of assembly lines

  • Throughput and capacity planning

  • Production logistics and material flow – including transportation management and facility relocations or additions

  • Management of inventory levels, replenishment rates, batch sizes, production planning, etc.

  • Facility layout and resource allocation

  • Clarity of work instructions and revision management

  • Programming robotics and automation equipment

  • Improving build quality and validating alternative raw materials