Simulation Modeling

Simulation modeling allows the resources involved in
a manufacturing process – workers, equipment and
technology – to be tested and analyzed in a “virtual”
setting.

Simulation modeling is the only method that provides both
objective analysis, and detailed animated visualization of
the process. It is an integral component of many lean
manufacturing programs, particularly those that involve
conveyor material handling systems. For a sample of our
simulation work, click here. (It's a large file – please allow
60 seconds to load.).

Simulation modeling is an excellent tool for companies
operating or planning to buy conveyor material handling
systems, companies who want to implement more lean
manufacturing at all levels of operations, and companies
who want to validate their preliminary designs before
moving forward on a program.

Simulation modeling is an exceptionally efficient and
cost-effective way:

• For manufacturing management to
  “prototype” a process

• For plant managers to sell a proposed
  concept to management

• For those charged with productivity to
  identify waste, or factors that limit throughput

• For team leaders to make adjustments that
  allow best possible application of labor resources

• For production personnel to quickly and definitively
  test-out alternatives for achieving a goal, such as
  increased production, a change in product mix,
  conversion from batch to continuous flow,
  or inventory reduction

• For facility planners to test the effects of
  a renovation, shift addition – or change in
  manufacturing sequence

• For training departments to help new hires
  become productive and confident

Simulation modeling mimics the facility’s specific
resources, throughput and constraints, and can be done
for a particular work cell, department, facility, or larger supply
chain. It is well-suited to conveyor material handling systems,
and to operations ranging from assembly to finishing to
shipping and distribution.

Animating the various production events, and visually
accelerating the timeframe, allows simulation modeling to
generate a compelling and objective overview that validates
good ideas, and makes the deficiencies in others clear and
incontrovertible.

Because simulation modeling can archive the various
possibilities that are considered, the performance of various
scenarios can also be compared using the model output data.

Achieving the best-possible outcomes – (and being able
to demonstrate that the best outcome was achieved!) –
is a powerful benefit of simulation modeling. No wonder so
many companies regard it as “no-risk” process engineering!

Pinnacle Engineering is a regional leader in simulation
modeling for high-value lean manufacturing and assembly.
We provide flexible, expert simulation modeling to suit your
program, whether it involves conveyor material handling
systems, lean manufacturing, or other goals.

© copyright 2011 Pinnacle Engineering Inc. All rights reserved.